When the internet was first becoming popular, and people were finally getting clunky desktops in their homes, my dad told me "everything on the internet is a lie." Obviously, that is a bit of an exaggeration, but it has genuinely helped me pause and consider everything with a critical eye.

It started out with those ridiculous pop-up ads that would insist you've just won thousands of dollars, then it was money to save a prince in a far off land, then came craigslist scams, and finally meeting strangers online. But it has expanded beyond what he was initially worried about into more subtle and insidious lies. Whether it's common misinformation spreading fear and anger, or the proliferation of photoshopping and life-style instagram accounts that spread insecurity and discontent, etc. life online can be a minefield.

It is undoubtedly an amazing tool, and as a tool it can be used in different ways. So, having that initial advice really helped me approach what I was seeing with some skepticism, and I am absolutely certain that his words saved me from a lot of bullshit.