My relationship with media could easily be compared to teenagers and their hormones. To teenagers on a good day, their parents are the best people in the world. On a not so good day, their parents are close-minded, unfair dictators. On a good day, the media is this beautiful endeavor for discovery and inspiration. On a bad day, the media is a censored, filtered, and systematic lie.
I've always seen the media as something harmful, as something to get away from. This is probably because the first word that comes to mind is social media. And when I think of social media, I think of addiction! I for sure have a negative connotation with the word. But the true definition is what relieves me. I have tried my best to stray away from excessive use, but I find that my own classes are encouraging it. Papers are being turned in online, studying is most effective by computer, and even this blog is done online. We are of course prone to distraction and exposure of advertisements when on the computer. Aside from that, it is revealed how necessary the media really is.
I know I don't have a strong connection to my phone, however I know that I have some connection. That scares me. During the week, I probably use social media for an hour a day. I am required to spend more time than that, for school. That probably adds another hour. The world is so virtual now. That scares me. Our life is one huge target that the media is hunting for. We are prey, and the media is the predator. That scares me. And advertising is all around us, it is virtually inescapable. That scares me.
As scary as it is, lately, I've realized it is not such a bad thing. Everyday I find myself inspired and excited from everything I see. I would not have many of the passions that make me, well me. In a way, the media has allowed for me to branch out and find a part of myself I would have never known.
Because I have accepted that it is impossible to truly escape the media, I have decided to look at all the good it provides, rather than hate on something that will always be here. I truly believe it is inescapable. Our thoughts are shaped and heavily influenced by the media. Even in nature, everything is one big advertisement. Animals and plants look a certain way to attract a mate or lure a predator. It is needed for survival!
I was surprised to find out that media includes songs. Music is such a huge part of my life. It has united, created memories, and almost acts as a timeline for my life. I cannot imagine a world without music. So, I guess that means I cannot imagine a world without media.
Because of these conflicting views, opinions, and ideas of media, I called my blog Manic Media. It really is wild and exciting, but can also be insane.
Just another Manic Media.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsmVgoXDq2w