Why I'm Giving Up Social Media For Lent.

In the past I have written about how what I give up for Lent ultimately prepares me for a bigger picture.

I don't think this year is any different.

I've been growing in disgust the more time I spend on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Topics range from gay marriage, to dinners planned for the week, to sickness. Generally, I can scroll through fairly quickly, pick and choose what I want to read, and move on with my life. However, I'm finding myself getting more annoyed.

I love reading about the shenanigans a toddler is pulling, and seeing pictures of growing baby bumps, but I hate reading about what people hate or like about our government, or how someone can't stand the  grammar people use.

Everyone has a right to post what they like on their Facebook, etc. But what has happened to people's dignity and respect for others?

Did you know I'm going through RCIA at my parish so I can convert to the Catholic faith? If you're not a close family member or friend you probably don't. I don't feel like that is something I need to shout to my Facebook friends. Why start a topic of conversation with people who will refuse to understand why I'm doing it, or persuade me to think my decision is a wrong one?

The other major reason why I'm giving up social media for 40 days is because of the time.

I spend so much of my precious time on my phone, computer, or iPad reading through other people's lives and opinions, when I could be spending that time being productive in my home, listening to my children better, or having an actual conversation with my husband.

I want to read more.
I want to craft more.
I want to clean more.
I want to pray more.
I want to listen more.

Isn't all of that worth it?