Forever 21 kimono (similar, similar) and sunglasses; Roxy coverup (LOVE this option!); Target pants and shoes; Saint Eve bracelet; Curious Creatures pendant (similar for LESS!)

My grandfather died today. He was 86, lived an amazing life, and was ready to let go. It wasn’t a surprise, in fact I’m happy his suffering is over. He meant a lot to us and I hope he is somewhere really spectacular as we speak, living it up. He deserves that. 

What was a surprise was finding out that he died via social media. A relative posted soon after he passed and I read it before a phone call could be made. 

This was devastating. 

I found myself wondering, why there is a need to splash information to others at the speed of light?

I think that social media is so great. It connects us to others and keeps us informed and close knit, even if we aren’t geographically so. As a military wife, I have always been away from friends and family and I relish being able to keep up. I love seeing what my friends are up to and sharing my life with those that are far away. I try to keep it upbeat, and fun, always. No one wants to hear about how much my kids are fighting, or how bad my back hurts, or other negative things. Who does? 

I think there is a line, especially in horrible, tragic conditions, where we need to take a step back. Evaluate the timing of what you are posting, and the reason why. If it is about something painful and life changing, perhaps think about whether or not Facebook/Twitter/Instagram is the place to do it. 

Losing anyone is personal business. We all grieve in our own ways, and we all have the right to take the time to heal and find a new normal. I think in this day and age, where all of us are buried to our noses in our iPhones and iPad’s, it still makes sense to use common sense. Hearing about a death should come from a phone call or in person, not a text, or social media. It should come at a time when those that are grieving are ready to share. We need to honor those that are the most hurt and take their lead. 

I don’t think anyone needs to hear personally devastating news via social media, ever. I’d like to think that everyone might take a moment when posting something potentially hurtful, whether it is well intentioned or not, and think about those that may read.

Perhaps they don’t know yet. 

And hearing anything heartbreaking over Facebook is never the answer.