There are people I know, people I love, who have mistaken the Internet and it’s accompanying technologies as life. Social media, and back in the day, programs such as ICQ and AIM, are indeed mighty applications. I’ve seen them bring people together from around the world. I’ve seen relationships crushed by them. I write today to remind one and all that these things are tools. Only tools.

The carpenter who builds a house doesn’t blame his hammer for the mishap that blackened his thumbnail. But if looked at from a different perspective, the mishap might reveal something about the carpenter’s skill. And if the carpenter blames the tool… it reveals something about his mental health.

Applications such as Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn are marvels for networking and promoting one’s brand. They are also amazing for bringing people together and showing us that planet earth is a small community. But when virtual life starts to part ways with reality… it’s time to back off and remember you’re sitting on the couch…in a three dimensional room… with loved ones around you. Believe in real life and remember who you are. Yes, show your brand. Yes, make friends in a different country. Yes, join a community of like minded people. But never forget that social media is a tool. Use it as it should be used. Keep it real.