Electronic communication

Has anyone else noticed the break down in socialization and basic social skills, as a result? 

I am not awarding myself any credit for, even remotely, breaking this standard. Most of my communication is via some sort of electronic screen. 

On the one hand, I count it a blessing that I can stay in constant contact with friends and family that, ordinarily, I would be separated from, due to distance and./or  "schedules".  It is so nice to be able to know how people I care about, but aren't able to see, are doing. I am able to see pictures of their family, hear stories about their adventures and antics, leave posts of encouragement and such on their "page", and even pray for them when they are having a bad day. 

On the other hand, I've found that the deeper I delve into strictly electronic communication (facebook, texting, etc) the more awkward it is to socialize in person. For example:

Have you ever had this moment? 

You have a "facebook friend" (ie someone you typically only speak to on facebook) that you meet up with in person. Now, in the context of facebook, it's easy to talk for "days" about family, life, and even deep personal issues, but with them now sitting across from you, drinking coffee, or what-have-you.... you find you have nothing to say to them. It's somewhat like talking to a stranger even though, previously, you have have, without thinking, referenced them as your friend?

Maybe yes, maybe no, but I have definitely been in this situation. 

It is, undoubtedly, a difficult cycle to break. Once you convert the convenience of electronic communication, anything else seems so cumbersome. 

Why call when you can text? 

Why text when you can facebook? 

I suppose, on one level, it eliminates the fear of rejection. I often ponder if my acquaintances enjoy my company or, instead, tolerate me due to forced interaction. I'm not throwing my self a one-man-band pity party. I am just not always sure. I have a tendency to want to "cut the crap" and get to the root of a person and most people, likely including myself, find it more comfortable to keep a safe distance. I, therefore, can't always tell if they consider me a friend or not. 

The state of not knowing where someone stands, leaves me pondering the following dilemma:

Do I continue to assume the best and force my friendship on people? or

Do I wait for them to initiate contact/friendship, so that I can "read" whether or not they take me seriously as a friend? 

I seem to always make the wrong choice. 

I, often, will "push the issue" with people who have no true desire to become close friends with me.  OR

I stay aloof when they are really hoping that I will try harder and become their friend. 

FAIL!!!            

All this results in a feeling of safety and comfort reverberating from my electronic devices. 

This is BAD. 

It's not the same to "like" someone's comment as it is to enjoy a laugh over something silly.. 

It's not the same to comment "I'm praying for you" on their facebook status as it is to embrace them.

It's not the same to write a blog about how you're feeling as it is to truly commiserate with someone. 

I want to learn to break the cycle, but I must first consider, with whom? and how? 

We tried hosting a Bible study at our home, and with the exception of two of our AMAZING friends we did not have any attendees.   

I am at a loss. 

Lord, let us always have open hearts for everyone. Allow us to discern good friendships and always be good friends.

amen.