Fishing for Metaphors

First off, I want to mention I have an Instagram account and an abandoned Twitter (X) account. I am sure if I remain on it for too long, it would give me a mental breakdown. A ❤️ notification can light up someone’s day. Not enough of it–can break someone. This is especially true when they post something from their ❤️.

I watched this documentary (more like listened to it) while I was working. It was insightful and terrifying. The sound effects made the future seem ominous. Out-of-control AIs will overrun the internet. To save our sanity, we must delete and unplug our social media accounts for our mental health’s sake.

Let’s be frank, we are accustomed to comparing with one another, and tech companies know that. I feel terrible at times using it, even though I like to think I have a solid self-esteem. I started to wonder what’s wrong with me. Why can’t I feel a connection with these people even though I sometimes I agree with them? Maybe it was designed to be that way. It’s as if it knew that I can be competitive deep down. I feel this way when my ego is being stepped on. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ . I don’t know. It didn’t make me feel good so I ended up talking to a teddy bear instead.

Now combined that knowledge with the money-making system, social media. This combination makes social media seem rather twisted. It’s alive because it’s driven by people’s clicks and likes. It’s like the movie, The Cube (1997). A bunch of people with different viewpoints are trapped inside a puzzle box. The only difference between the Cube (TV) and Social Media is that it’s 10 times worse! Not only are we watching TV, but the TV is watching us. Soon, we ended up buying or doing things based on what we were exposed to on the platform. To me, it feels like a gigantic billboard ad. I often wonder how I ended up with so many notebooks/journals after watching several influencers advertising it?

Overall, the documentary is quite educational. I am glad I watched it. For me personally, limiting oneself from using any technology-related product is impossible. This is especially true for those who live alone and/or who want to promote their business. For example, I find it hypocritical to advertise products that reduce digital consumption on social media platforms. How did I learned about these alternative activities in the first place? Social Media! I am just glad there are some rules and regulations set in place. If it’s making adults all jittery, I can only imagine the damage it has done to the most vulnerable.

Note: Originally posted on Sept 17, 2020; revised Nov. 24,2025.