“The Likes” of You

‘Like’ used to be more optimistic. It was happy with family reunions, weddings, and job interviews. Nestled at the bottom of something grandiose, it was a humble smile. A thumbs up for success.

‘Like’ made its way through family albums, wedding events, and dinners with old friends from college. ‘Like’ was there for the video of your friend playing with the lobsters before supper. It was a funny gesture, something admired and memorable. ‘Like’ valued this in the way it made its presence known.

But then ‘Like’ became popular. Everyone wanted a thumbs up and pictures became desperate. That smiling selfie you took, gazing up at a cell phone camera with newly applied makeup, captured a child’s face rather than an adult. Big eyes, small mouth.  ‘Like’ enjoyed stalking.

‘Like’ showed up to all the biggest parties. Even if it didn’t actually like being there.

The Halloween bash where your friend threw up all over the backseat of your mom’s car? That party was liked. The obituary of a distant relative that was met more than once? That was liked too.

‘Like’ became snarky. Hard edged thumbs felt more like middle fingers. After years of polite smiles, ‘Like’ finally met its match. Dislike was on the horizon.