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AllanT's avatar

Fabuously written and accurate, as always. I used to marvel (even way back in "MySpace" days) of how some people's sole aim was to get as many "friends" as possible, as if it held some kind of clout. I have a relatively tiny friends list on FarceBook and the majority are people I have met, or have interacted with in a tangible way. The list gets shorter as people break a trust or leave the platform. I've never once regretted a block or 'un-friend', and like to think I've learned or grown from each one.

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Greg's avatar

When one talks of blocking on social media, I always fall back on the wisdom of Hookland: "Twitter is your pub. You set the door policy, you decide who gets barred and for what."

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margo storey's avatar

Leave x and go to Bluesky

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Michael Longworth's avatar

It's a grim world when you have to say why you need your space....♥️

You've described the blocking thing perfectly. I do it too. And on Facebook and X, I've started ditching all the accounts that were added for work/business/things I'd bought etc. It's slowly becoming what it was supposed to be about...a place for me to chat to family and friends

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Mark's avatar

Wouldn’t disagree with any of your points.

There’s nothing wrong with guarding your front door. Probably more important to someone like yourself who has to balance your privacy with your (very) public life.

It’s a shame that some people feel the need to criticise your account locking and blocking but I think that, rather neatly, proves your point 👍

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Mark McGibbon's avatar

Loved this post. I’ll keep my speculations to myself. 😌

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Kev's avatar

Julianne, this post is a masterclass in the art of gracious boundary-setting with a side of wit. The Emperor Nero analogy had me picturing you in a toga, dramatically deciding Facebook fates with a hyperextended thumb. And the Etch A Sketch people? Absolute gold—I can already see them shaking away their fauxpologies, only for the ‘ugly drawing’ to haunt their attempts at a fresh start.

Your insights are both relatable and hilariously on point. Thanks for giving us a chuckle while reminding us that protecting our peace is anything but selfish. Also, kudos on the love for stiles—that’s niche-level social media appreciation we should all aspire to!

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