Tag: digital freedom

Justice Isn’t a Feeling.

2020.

Friends, if we don’t agree on things right now, are you ok with it? Because there’s so much division lately, and I don’t want to get lost in conversations that build walls between us. Do you?

Backlash in opposing views is oppressive, and lot of us would rather walk on eggshells not to offend each other, or hurt relationships. But is peacemaking genuine with suppressed conviction and lack of reciprocation? What do you think?

I’ve wrestled with so many posts online since Covid hit. I know, it would be easy to just delete or mute feeds. But I’d like to tell my friends, even when we disagree, I want to understand your heart and why you believe that way. What motivates you? I’d like to talk about it, kindly.

However you feel towards politics, the pandemic, social distancing, and everything going on, I’m sure your opinion is only growing stronger (mine is too). So tell me this. As our world struggles with injustice, what are you doing about it? I’m asking myself the same. 

But it isn’t really an easy conversation. Today’s evolving definition of ‘justice’ has everyone on edge. Feelings have become the modern scale for what’s right and wrong, and it’s a total mess! Because if mine and yours are opposite, and opinions are the premise for order, there’s no resolve. Do you agree – we need a code of ethics, universal morale. (Psalm 19:7-10 gives me hope.)

Look at it through the lens of online culture. Consequences of social media have become obvious (lest you live in a cave). Sure there are a lot of positives, but a lot of risk too. Everything we view online impresses our minds.

Have you ever seen something you regretted, and then wondered how the heck it came across your feed? — How many of us watched the final moments of a man named George Floyd? I’d never seen anyone die before until I saw that video, did you? Someone thought it was ok to post, how is that ok?!

But when this becomes acceptable, we lose grip with empathy. And then, does it really matter what we post? I mean, if you think it’s funny, doesn’t that make it ok? It’s just a picture, just a video. What even is cyberbullying then? Just a feeling?

Unrestricted social media is shaping minds, often robbing innocence, even deafening hearts. But is that just an opinion?

If you’re still reading here, I think you agree that we need something better. We need justice warriors who crusade with love, respect, and esteem for others. Whether we agree or not, love wins. Love is what ultimately saves our world. 

So before putting up a fight, let’s be sure our actions do not thrive on the derailment of someone or something else. Instead, lean into the outcome of what we hope to achieve. Think on what is true. Focus on the solution. Justice isn’t a feeling.

“Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, pure, and lovely, and admirable.” (Philippians 4:8)

Together We Thrive!
-Ayme

Technology | DIY Freedom

 

Pros and cons with internet connection leave me unsettled. How about you? It’s not “if” we need discretion, but how and why, and when. “Hoping for the best” doesn’t pan out; there’s too much to consider. But I refuse to dwell in fear. How do you feel about it all?

Most of us, especially if you’re in on this conversation, are trying to figure out some kind of balance with technology. And however deliberate, we approach it with one of three ways: Avoidance (limiting exposure), Acceptance (living in the moment), or Accommodation (a combination of both). Bluntly, we either dodge it, ignore it, or engage it.

It’s a juggling act, right? A fine balance of awareness and limitation, advantage lies with fierce commitment to boundaries, freedom, and constant communication. Without these things, we fall complacent to ‘accept’ whatever lands on our doorstep.

This is all reallyhumbling.The ebb and flow for independence still requires more. It calls for a willing heart. Character is a choice, the key to all of it.

So, the question is really this.How do we encourage strong character?

DIY Positive Online Character

Could it be so easy!?

Here are some ideas for inspiring strong character with technology freedom in our homes, including (a parenting perspective).

Determine the Goal:(Independence and Self-regulation. Do our kids understand that the choices they make directly effect their future? What they do is a reflection of who they are, not us. All of this is focused toward autonomy, and we want the best things in life for them. The tricky part is trying to keep that in mind when it’s hectic.)

Determine Reasoning: Why is this the goal?(Our kids are just years away from becoming adults! Like I said, we want the best for their future. But since they’re still kids, what’s the short-term plan? This is where it gets crazy. “Mom, can I get this app?” “Can I watch Youtube?” “I want to get this game.” You know the plea bargaining, — everyone’s kids are doing it. ‘I want more…I want more.’ It’s how we’re wired and it’s how technology is moving. For us, this is where boundaries are a lifeline for reasoning.)

Design Boundaries / Consider the Consequences:(If we can’t discuss the consequences, we can’t allow opportunity. In other words, unless consequences are age-appropriate / something we’re comfortable explaining, it has to be a definite “no.” Everything else can be opportunity for learning. Well, sort of. You know the boundaries I was talking about? They’re different for each of my kids. But no matter what, technology is a privilege. The ability to have a phone, create passwords, download apps, use the internet, all of it — it’s our gift to them. It’s a ‘gift that keeps on giving.’ Seriously though…it is. Regardless of all efforts, an attitude of expectation totally sinks their boat. Expectation halts the gifting.)

Create accountability.(This is the big part. Accountability is built on a relationship with trust and respect. Each of our kids has unique needs, strengths, and weaknesses. Accountability looks different for each one. Our job is to meet them where they are at. We have to pay attention and stay aware. It’s not easy, at all. In addition, we can’t be ignorant to temptation. Even as we work toward trusting relationships, it’s only logical to limit what’s on the plate. We have to set some kind of restrictions. For my family, these have grown to include internet filtering, time and password limits, and other restrictions that manage ratings and content. What kind of limits work for you, for your family?)

Age and experience do not define us. Online identity is powerful.

Every day is a new beginning! Be determined for this, no matter where you are at.

I often wonder, what would it have been like to raise kids 20 years ago? Does every generation feel like their dilemmas are the hardest? When I wish for a manual on modern revolution, I have to remember that it all falls back on the heart. And since the beginning of creation, that has always been. I’m thankful for my faith and the power that prayer has in my life. I don’t center posts around this, sensitive that there are many beliefs. But for me, my faith in God is the greatest source of peace I can ever find.

Together We Thrive!

Ayme