Oh dear – I’ve been neglecting my bloggy-blog….
I’ve been two-timing with Twitter….even as I write that I know admitting it is the first step. But now – I’m tired of thinking in 140 character long sentences and have decided to come back to what I do best…rambling on at length…
That, and the slightly unsettling nature of Twitter. Let me explain. A few weeks ago I posted a comment – witty and pithy, I thought. Several of my followers/friends replied with general messages, acknowledging the humour and several others re-tweeted the comment, well two. But several sounds better doesn’t it? But one tweeter who I have never met and do not know replied to my re-tweeted tweet with a scathing comment. I know, I know. You shouldn’t put yourself out there if you don’t want to be heard and be prepared for the consequences. But just think for a second if you were in a crowded shopping centre – you turned to your friend and said something and then someone else behind you criticised your comment. In virtual land – its still bad manners surely? And yes, in case you’re wondering – I would’ve been totally fine if someone had said something nice – because there’s always room in the world, virtual or real for that. But the point is – my comment was tweeted to my friends who I knew would see the funny side of it – not to the random stranger who decided to comment negatively. Yes, content on the web is accessible for all, but isn’t a conversation on the bus, tube or in a shopping centre the same? There’s no problem over-hearing something and even thinking something scathing – but to say it is where I draw the line – bad manners on the web is still bad manners in real life…
Virtual exhale…
Yeah I had a similar situation years ago. Back when I was keeping a Livejournal. Fado, fado …
Unfortunately there is no point getting into a fight with someone on the internet – nor letting them upset for that matter. As a politically insensitive man said once “Winning an argument online is like winning at the Special Olympics. Yeah you won, but you’re still a retard!”
So, fuck that poster and the horse they rode in on. You have manners and standards by which you live your life, admirable qualities, and let that poster and their ilk stoop to whatever pus filled depths they need to get their kicks. One day we’ll find them all and give them a good thrashing.
What a way with words you have Paudie – thanks for the positive advice! And also for joining in the debate…I’m interested to see how everyday manners work with regard to social networking and if the same rules apply.