I felt guilty every time I didn't click, the way I used to feel bad about breaking a chain letter that offered treasure in the form of hundreds of people mailing you books or money, or the threat of dire consequences for non-compliance. "The four people who broke this chain died within three days."

I couldn't help but wonder what kind of individual downloads a photo of a cute little girl running a race, then, with the full knowledge that what they're doing is fraud, fobs it off as the victim of a heinous attack? Was it not tragic enough that we knew three people had died, dozens were seriously injured and thousands profoundly affected? It made me angry.

Within milliseconds of the explosions, #BostonMarathon and #PrayForBoston were trending topics on Twitter. This is today's reality when it comes to tragedy. We live in a day and age where news finds us, we don't need to even look for it. Online, in the midst of tragedy, it's easy to spot those who care... those who don't... and those who would and do dare to make some sort of joke or cast blame before all of the facts have been sorted. While this online always-connected life exposes us to tragedy faster and with more detail and impact than ever before... it also allows us to feel connected, to reach out and support one another like never before.

Unfortunately for lovers of thoughtful writing, the rise of amateur critiques has corresponded with the fall of professional theatre criticism. Some theatres are even adding a "Twitter section" where audience members can tweet with impunity during a show. Today news organizations are employing fewer full-time journalists to report on arts and culture, and 140 characters is a bit short for a decent review.

If you're thinking, "Well, if Facebook bores you that much, don't use it," believe me, I've tried. I "deactivated" my account, but a couple of months later you're curious to see what everyone has been up to and log on, ostensibly to have a quick nose about.

Nothing in the way that you market yourself is more powerful than the word of a trusted friend. How can you go about turning everyday chance meetings and business connections into long-lasting and profitable new relationships?