Often, on social media, when a friend posts pictures of what they did last night with a group of friends, someone, and I mean someone will just have to comment, “TFTI“. It is an acronym which means, “thanks for the invite”–with LOTS of sarcasm behind it. It’s kind of like, “ok? you didn’t even think to invite me to go out/hangout/ do what you did last night? gee, thanks…”
This poses a few things about social media, our group of friends and most importantly, ourselves.
- Social Media: it can take a lot from a person. In fact, it can turn out to be very bad. We see what other people post: their life is of such lavishness; their life is so adventurous; they know so many people; they’re popular; they have so much “likes/followers”; they’re beautiful, etc. but really, it’s all behind the screen. Social media can deceive us so much. We will believe what we see, without a doubt.
- Friends: ok, sometimes, just because we’re friends on Facebook/Snapchat or we follow each other on Twitter/Instagram, it doesn’t necessarily means we are friends. Maybe we just have similar interests or we’ve met a couple times at social functions, but that’s it. Nothing more. We have to keep in mind that we’re probably not our friend’s only friend. It is okay for people to have more than one circle of friends! We shouldn’t be bitter if they’re having a great time with their other friends. Instead, we should celebrate with them, and perhaps we can celebrate with them separately at our own time.
- Ourself: It is true that we may feel left out, upset or hurt when we see our friends going out and not inviting us. But why do you allow it to have an effect on you? That’s what they wanted to do, so if they didn’t invite you, there is a reason. Perhaps they’ve been busy “adulting“, so give it a break. There’s no need to comment so ever irrelevantly, “TFTI”. Instead, just comment, “Looks like you guys had a great time!” Stop being so bitter about it, carry on. We aren’t entitled to be considered and invited everywhere our friends go. Invite them or hope that they invite you next time. If not, that’s okay; get out and get to know new people!
At the end of the day, understand that it’s ok to not be invited. Sometimes, even being in a room full of people, you can still feel alone. Whether they think of you or not, think of yourself and save your time from even commenting “TFTI”. Just simply continue scrolling on your newsfeed or give it a “like” “heart”.