Internet friends vs. face-to-face friends in keeping it postive

I used to have many arguments with my mother who was NOT into computers about whether or not the use of the computer diminishes social activity.

I am thinking, it changes it for sure. I can spend HOURS on the internet, mostly here and facebook, catching up with friends, commenting with friends, etc. Are they really “friends”? Some are, some are just friends for the moment, people to share ideas with.

I find, with my communication style of interrupting when I have an idea/a thought, communicating on line works better in a way. I get my point across and ruffle fewer feathers… I am not talking “over” someone else. And interestingly, I am finding an ego-boost when my comments are “liked”. My “bon mots” are accepted and given a nod as it were.

I’ve gotten to know people through the social media that I would never know otherwise. One has become a true face-to-face friend, although I’ve met 1/2 dozen of them. Before the Internet, I was still a loner, just myself, my books, etc. Now, I feel as if I am interacting with many more people - just with an electronic wall between us. Is it a step “up”? I think so.