15 Comments
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Douglas Oster's avatar

You are absolutely right , we are all looking for meaning online. For me it is also validation of my beliefs, particularly if it is through something funny. I find Derry Girls very good for this.

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

haha I loved Derry Girls, especially the nun!

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Loretta Mitro's avatar

Yes, those were the days! I really miss having at least a Sunday newspaper actually in my hand to read. I always looked forward to it as a Sunday ritual.

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

The funny papers and Dear Abby were my go-tos! :D

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Eduardo Shoaff's avatar

I cut the cord long ago so the only thing I watch on TV is YouTube. I watch PBS Newshour and afterwards some music. The algorithm feeds me more music suggestions and different genres, which is good. It also suggests more news but what YouTube thinks is news and what I think is news, differs greatly. My wife watches Angel Verdugo, a political commentator and then the algorithm feeds her more of the same. Such is life in this brave new world. Do I have any suggestions on how to control yourself and not waste more time? None.

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

Yeah, I feel like SOME algorithmic suggestion isn't bad...like, I've discovered a lot of music that I wouldn't have otherwise, which is basically like listening to a radio station that plays your favorite style of music.

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Loretta Mitro's avatar

Sarah, I decided not to be on social media; I spend too much time on the internet already. I, too, am addicted to Youtube (on TV). I would like to suggest you watch the Meidas Touch network. I believe it is the only place where we can get news analysis we can believe; they have no fear of Trump. They have lawyers who know and undestand the law. Anad they can spot the BS! Loretta

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

Oh, I haven't heard of that! I subscribe to Ground News which gives a kind of distribution graph against liberal and conservative media outlet coverage, but honestly, I prefer the Times, haha. I just miss GETTING the paper and sitting down and reading it for like 30 minutes and then going about my day, not constantly inundated with news!

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Michael Bereziuk's avatar

We all suffer the same addiction I believe. Our addiction choice varies but never ends. I continuallly look for things that cheer me up...good news items..."That Good news girl" is a good one for me on FB. There is simply too much bad news in the world and I try and avoid reading it before breakfast. I then try and balance it with humour and/or good news. Like one of your other readers, I try and validate my thoughts on an issue by monitoring it on-line. However, Media outlets should be encouraged/mandated to publish one good news item for every bad news item.

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robin mexicanbeachbum.com's avatar

So true. It's like going through withdrawals. Recently I've said "enough", so I am unsubscribing to certain newsletter emails, (not yours) and clearing the deck so I don't get distracted. I love reading all the goodies that arrive but at the end of the day, I didn't feel accomplished. I have found I am getting more work done and more time with friends. I love Youtube!! That is a keeper, so much education there and enjoyment and learning, also that entertainment! I have weird videos I personally enjoy. If you'd like to know what they are, please ask, I'll happily share!

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

Oh, I feel honored to still be in the mix! :) I'm intrigued about your favorite YouTubers, but also am trying to spend LESS time on it, so I might wait a bit!

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Mauri's avatar

Well said! I am trying to wean myself, too. I don’t know how a baby boomer became so dependent!

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

Because it's MADE to make us all dependent, pushing all our evolutionary buttons that have no need to be grown into or out of. I wonder if getting off will be easier for my kid if she decides to...

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robert schlagal's avatar

You describe a common tech infused/enforced dilemma well. Thanks

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Sarah DeVries's avatar

thanks, Robert!

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