Please slow down with the social media well wishes

I've been discussing this issue on social media lately with many of you and, tonight after reading about one incident in particular, I decided to write this letter.

When a loved one of mine passes away, please DO NOT write about it on Facebook, either in general or on my page, for a day or two!! I do not want my distant relatives or friends finding out about our loss because someone feels the need to be first!

Fortunately, I haven't lost a family member recently and don't expect to. I'm just thinking about how I'd feel if what I've seen recently happened to me.

Not long ago, I noticed well intending people were posting their condolences on family members' Facebook pages mere hours after that person's loved one had passed. I doubt the family had notified all of their out of state friends and family yet and didn't need the death talked about on social media for those far away to read!!

I've been told recently about a woman who held the hand of her father as he passed away, then took a break to gather herself before going to inform her siblings, only to find out someone else had just told them!

Please, just think about it...now and before you post on Facebook or speak it on the street!!

It needed to be said.

Vivian S. Bruckner

Malta