The Power of Social Media - #FelonCrushFriday

If you're still not "sold" on this social media stuff, check this out:

A few days ago, a picture of this guy pops up on the Internet.

His name is Jeremy Meeks.  He's 30 years-old and he's absolutely gorgeous.  Those piercing baby blue eyes. That golden caramel skin.  His chiseled bone structure and those lips?  Tattoos?  *blank stare*  Yes.   

I know what you're thinking - "He's a model, right?" Weeelllllll, hold on there.

See, Jeremy is a convicted felon who is currently locked up in a Stockton, California jail on a felony weapons charge (he spent nine years in prison on a grand theft charge).  The picture above is his mugshot and it has gone viral.  Super viral. The Stockton police department posted Jeremy's picture on their Facebook page and in less than 48 hours, it has garnered over 76,000 "Likes" and over 21,000 comments (mostly women, of course). And the Internet has exploded with a #FelonCrushFriday hashtag - all because of Jeremy.  Jesus.

What does that mean?  Simple.  Social media is powerful. It has a way of connecting people (strangers) like no other form of communication.  It removes annoying barriers & boundaries (cultural, regional, age, etc.)

*Side Note:  Trust me, there are stay-at-home moms who live in midwest suburbs drooling over Jeremy at this very moment.

When you think about it, it's pretty amazing.

Does that make Jeremy a hero?  Absolutely not.  He's just a handsome criminal who's become a pseudo-celebrity because of the power of social media.  If that doesn't make you say "Wow," I don't know what will....
  

Happy Graduation! (It Takes a Village!)

I love graduation season!  Love it!  I get so tickled when I see cap & gown pictures and proud, stoked parents.  How can you NOT smile when you see that?  Cutest thing ever!

A few days ago my niece graduated from high school in Florida. Her mom, my sister (an amazing single mom) was beaming.  And so was I.  Same goes for my entire family. Our friends and neighbors were equally excited too!  

My niece's graduation was a true labor of love.  There were highs, lows, growing pains, fashion wins (she's a diva) and lots of laughter along the way.  And through it all, she had a village of supporters who held her down.  All graduates do!  That's why it's such a special time.  

The world seems crazy at times, and I often worry about this upcoming generation.  They need encouragement.  They need love (sometimes tough love), and they need a village to rally around them through good and challenging times.    

Graduations are so awesome!  Point-blank-period.  They symbolize accomplishments, possibilities, the future and the village.  Perfect reasons to celebrate! :)