Character: Netiquette
What is Netiquette exactly?
Netiquette is “Internet Etiquette.”
Huh?
I get it. Lots of people don’t know there are actually manners on the Internet.
Well, let me explain.
I know that chatting to others is a lot different than face-to-face conversation. But the only real difference is that it’s not physical. There is still a real person talking, someone with feelings, someone who, like you, does not want to see bad stuff, hear curse words or be offended.
Surprisingly, lots of people don’t really notice the little ways they hurt other people, people like themselves, over the internet. That’s because they are not aware.
Be aware
Being aware is very important. You’ll want to think twice about the message you are about to send the person. Ask yourself if it is necessary, helpful, important, positive and if it will glorify Jesus in you. Remember, do not type in caps lock or let all your letters be capital. This will give your audience or the person you’re chatting, a hint that you are shouting. If you do so by mistake, explain that it was an accident and that you didn’t mean to hurt others. Best of all, say you’re sorry. Admitting mistakes is Humility, a character that Jesus would highly regard. Not only do you please him but your relationship with the person will continue to grow in a more positive way.
Have Discernment
Discernment is the character of knowing between what is right and wrong, and it also goes along with Conscience. Remember to choose between your friends wisely, yes you can be kind to everyone but to protect yourself pick the friends your parents or God will totally agree on. They’ve already gone through times like these and have a “person” instinct (this means that they know whether the person is good or bad). Also, be aware of your own character on the Internet. Are you gossiping to someone about a friend you don’t like? What about your profile picture and Discord description? How about the things you’re posting or sending? Is accepting anyone random as a friend a good choice? I advise you not to have a personal chat with someone of the opposite gender (or sex). You want to be pure, right? Girls can infatuate boys with lust, while boys can play in girl’s minds telling them that they love them when what they really want is your money (or something else more serious). Only have personal chats if it’s necessary, like your teacher or your boss (if you’re working). If you do have a personal chat with someone of the opposite gender, add your parents or someone of the same gender as you into your chat. That way they can be accountable for you.
Understand Consideration
This is what everyone who goes to online classes or meetings shouts out. You sure don’t want to hear muffled voices shouting that block the speaker’s clear voice, double-check on that mic just to be sure! You also don’t want to play with the camera or give any distraction… you may be called out by the host and it’s embarrassing to be seen like that live from Facebook, Instagram, or Youtube. It’s terrible to see important links drift away when someone spams right? So don’t do it too. When you do something, that same thing will or already has happened to you too. So whether or not you curse secretly, God is right beside you all the time hearing you’re every word, seeing whatever you do, and yet forgiving you and loving you as his child. But that is not a license to sin.
I hope you remember and learn from these 3 simple points about Netiquette. I did too, and I can admit that I’m not a perfect person but I will become better and better. I know you will too! :D
Not seeing each other face to face is definitely not a valid excuse.
Treat others the way you want to be treated.
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