Come to the Well: Social Media as a Positive Tool for Women

In ancient times, women often gathered at springs, wells, or waterways to gather water for washing, cooking, and drinking. From the outside some would say they were gossiping, but actually, they were sharing vital information about themselves, family, and community. They could share advice or ideas on everything from medical treatments, recipes, places to find food or methods of growing it better, parenting, techniques for making things or trading and selling them, and much more – but they also provided support for one another, the comfort of knowing one was not alone in various situations, or getting assistance, and reassurance. As time passed women often were not educated even when men were, and so the oral tradition of women educating others, sharing information, and keeping informed on local events continued.

These days we often live far from our families, our cultures, our home communities. We still struggle with many of the same issues. Humans are biologically social animals, meant to live in groups and care for and support one another. It is important for our mental and physical health to have others to turn to. In a time when so many are separated by the miles, by work hours and responsibilities, by pandemics, by relocation or many other reasons the effects of isolation can cause stress, depression, loneliness emotionally, and the lack of sharing of ideas or information can lead to mistakes being made or sickness or injury being ignored. We were never meant to live in a vacuum of isolation, to raise families alone or give birth by ourselves, to care for the sick or be cared for when ill by ourselves. Yet even in a world as connected as ours, it is easy to feel very alone. The sense of support, comfort, and care that comes from others around may feel non-existent.

I propose that social media has given us an opportunity to create “digital tradition!” While many accuse social media of being harmful, it is all a matter of how we use it. Of course, you must keep your security in mind and know who is in your audience so you know what level of confidentiality you have. Be an educated consumer, and remember just because you saw it on the internet it isn’t necessarily a fact or true. Let’s look at how social media can be a powerful tool for women to support, inform, and empower one another.

1. Sharing stories: Social media provides a platform for women to share their experiences and stories, whether they are positive or negative. This can help to raise awareness about issues that affect women and encourage others to share their own stories. I have found lately that many are opening up about mental health challenges, menopause, being a caregiver to an elderly parent, and more in an honest way. In doing this, they not only get comfort form others, but often they find out they are not alone and others find out that they too, have others who understand them. They share resources and experiences, providing a wonderful sense of connection and information.
2. Building communities: Social media allows women to connect with others who share similar interests or experiences. This can help to create a sense of community and support. There are all sorts of interest groups on social media with various levels of privacy. Share dreams, network professionally, swap recipes, or seek information – come to the well and see what it can offer! Be aware that, just as at the well, some people may not have the right information, or may only represent their viewpoint. Be sure to consult various sources for information, not just those that are nearby or agree with your perspective. Be a well-rounded media consumer!
3. Amplifying voices: Social media can be used to amplify the voices of women who may not have a platform to share their perspectives. This can include women from marginalized communities, women in developing countries, or women who are otherwise underrepresented in mainstream media. Open your mind and heart to others and learn their stories, their struggles, and their points of view. It helps make you a better, more informed person and creates greater empathy and connection across communities and the globe.
4. Offering resources: Social media can be a useful tool for sharing information and resources that can benefit women. This can include information about health and wellness, financial resources, educational opportunities, and more. As they said back in the 80’s on TV, “Knowledge is power!” Or is it “The more you know…” Or is it “And knowing is half the battle!” Learn, share, use “digital tradition” to share through writing and video! Dance, sing, lecture, pray, share, inform, teach, cook, share, fill our hearts with poetry or technical knowledge – you are a valid member of the world community!
5. Celebrating achievements: Social media can be used to celebrate the achievements of women in all fields, from business to politics to the arts. This can help to inspire and encourage other women to pursue their own goals and dreams. Sharing your story, your triumph over challenge, your survival story, your great accomplishments or those of other women is a way to provide role models for the future and to inspire others around you. You never know whose life you may touch. We don’t have to be super heroes to be worth celebrating. Don’t be afraid to be proud and loud about it.

Let’s embrace our digital voices to support ourselves and one another. Set aside judgement, allow each voice to be heard, and be a part of the global well – share, support, educate, and inspire one another. Share laughter, tears, hopes, and struggles and know that you are part of the global community of women.