Have you ever wondered where you could find someone’s BBL recovery chair? Neither have I, yet among other oddities and various gems, this is what is offered on Facebook (FB) Marketplace. I don’t know how it became my common place in between classes to look for things I’ll never buy on Facebook. I mean if two years ago you told me the “old-people-Instagram” would be my top used app I’d have cackled in my own face! But you know what, for the thrifters and budgeters, the random collections of people’s unwanted things is both entertaining and useful. I mean the things I have seen range from centuries old sourdough starter and Bigfoot Stilts (learned about this as I wrote this) to designer couches and vintage lockets. Looking for brand new roller skates? Well, your new pair is white and a size six! What about an apartment? Yeah, you guessed it, 1k a month (but personally it looks a little small- keep looking).
The question that I guess remains is “Natasha have you bought anything?” Well I am sorry to disappoint ladies, I have not. Why? I am going to be 100% honest. I’m a little afraid. I do think the uncertainty is what makes it so exciting, and I have played roulette with Temu, so come back next year, when I don’t live in a dorm, I think I’ll get a lamp…or two.
While it may seem I’m a Marketplace groupie, I find that the magic of the Metaverse goes beyond commodities. In fact, the ability to connect to your surroundings and community is unparalleled. Often said, one of the finest things someone can have are experiences and at your fingertips there exists endless possibilities.
There is no question the transition to college is hard, but being in an entirely new city means you have to grow new roots, which can be difficult on a college campus. However I promise, Gainesville is not just football games and dodging student government. To add, I guarantee no matter where you live, there is a FB group dedicated to that area. In Gainesville, the community is crazy active, and the groups and opportunities are boundless. If you enjoy live music but have a hard time finding it, join this group. What about the fact that your Thursday nights are empty, well time to try swing dancing. Low on rent money, you can join a babysitting referral group or find out from “Gainesville Word of Mouth” about the opportunities to get paid to donate plasma. Developing your intellectual side, join “Community events” and learn about speakers, workshops and exhibits in your area. If you have an ounce of adventure in your research, try these new things. There is no excuse for not understanding the depth and culture of your area. Don’t even start about not having a car because the buses, while slightly unreliable, are clean, vast and awesome opportunities for people watching.
Before I free you from the grasps of Zuckerberg, there is one last mention to be made. Among various states and platforms there exists a group called “Buy Nothing,” which essentially entails people posting asking for an item and others responding if they have extras. Or vice versa where someone offers up items for others to claim, for free. Much like all the other groups as well, there will be one in your area. To me, this has been one of the truly wonderful things to witness: kindness and exchange with no strings attached. For example, a pleading mother asks for diapers and six people respond offering the tangible item, many others advise with one person even saying, and I quote, “If you still need on Wednesday, I will order you a box [and] wipes to be delivered when I get paid.” That alone can make your eyes tear up. Humanity can be beautiful and delicate. Who would have thought Facebook would show me that? Humans desire community, search for it – and everyone, no matter what stage of life, deserves one! Next time you feel your finger searching for Instagram, STOP- and give the “old-people-app” a shot, you might be surprised at the abundance you find.
I will also, shamefully, admit I got lost scrolling more than once while writing this – the FB allure is too strong.