Someone at a forum I belong to asked why people spent so much time at ‘wastebook’. He couldn’t see any benefit.  I used to think that way once… and thought it was something for only the young people. My views have changed over a few short years.  This was my response to the guy at the forum:

It’s about relationships and keeping in touch with people. Much of my family live interstate or overseas and through Facebook we can keep in touch, share photos and know what’s going on in each other’s lives. Same with friends who live at a distance. And in updating at Facebook they all learn what’s happening rather than me having to do multiple emails or written letters.

For some that need for contact might not be so important. Perhaps you see your family and friends often. Another reason why it’s become so important to me is that it was our daughter’s only address book when she died 2 years ago. It was the only way we could make contact with her friends and notify them of her funeral. Today many of her friends are still connected with me at Facebook and it helps me to see they’re moving on with their lives. And if some are struggling I can pop in to their Facebook page and leave an encouraging message.

For some Facebook may be a total waste of time, but for me it’s a life preserver, keeping me in contact with those who mean most to me.