Watching the live streaming of General Conference and the attendant Twitter feed has become strangely addictive. It’s almost like being there, including feeling the frustration of watching people try to make “amendments-to-amendments” that are, in reality, simply the initial motion unamended.
It is apparent that never before has there been this type of widespread instant sharing of thoughts and opinions by so many.
Here is what I am learning:
- The presence and power of young people (#gcyp) is magnified through Twitter in a way that will change the denomination.
- Anyone who considers themselves a “power broker” and yet isn’t tweeting isn’t a power broker for much longer.
- Tweeting is great for short pithy statements, or analogies to movies. (I’m loving the Hunger Games references!) It’s a wonderful way to show support for a person or a position. It is an entertaining way to follow the live action and giggle at some of the inanities that occur.
- However, it is a rare tweet that can offer a nuanced theological perspective in 140 characters or less. When those attempts fail, Twitter too often becomes a shouting match that adds nothing to the conversation.
- Finally, it appears that the #gc2012 hashtag is being used simultaneously by another organization. Each group must be having lots of “huh?” moments as random tweets show up.
I am impressed at the power of connection that the Twitterverse is bringing to our General Conference. It’s one more tool that we are better for- when we use it well.
