SOCIAL MEDIA: FOR GOOD OR ILL?

by James Molito
We hold an immense amount of power in our hands, but do we know how to use it? That was the question at the heart of last Tuesday's Core Course, present by Tim McMahon.
Before he focused on our generation's power, he brought to our attention the contradictory nature of power. Tim, like many of us, sees striving past our limitations as something to celebrate, but he found it necessary to bring out a startling, but vital revelation: we are more afraid of our power than our limitations. Amid this sorrowful moment, Tim found a hopeful message hidden beneath the fright. He urged us to never back away from our goals, and that it is ultimately okay to let ourselves shine.
Tim then asked us a vital question: have we been affected by social media and how have we affected others. Following up, Tim encouraged us to stand up for people in their time of need, either on- or offline. He then portrayed the heartbreaking effect social media can have on teenagers in both middle and high school. Time ended the night with a message of empowerment showing students the good social media could bring to the world.
Tim told the tale of the Ice Bucket Challenge, which grew from a group of close-knit friends to millions worldwide. He showed us the triumph of Alex who dedicated their last years of life to raising one million dollars in the fight against pediatric cancer starting with a measly lemonade stand. The final story hit home for Tim as it is happening in Merrimack, New Hampshire. Max the Mighty has stood strong against cancer for three years. After a warm thank you from PCC, Mr. McMahon urged us to support Max in his continued fight sending cards so that he could send our support. McMahon's message was one of responsibility to use our lives and our power for good.