[__jal]

I've never used Facebook, see no reason to start.

I occasionally get pushback from some relatives who tell me I'm not taking part in family stuff. That probably matters to some people, depending on their family dynamics. I simply point out that I also publish stuff online in places they don't choose to look.

I also miss out on some community chatter and the occasional event with a couple of orgs I'm involved with. I don't personally care.

In general, my calculation is that my life is noticeably better without it. I'm not someone who needs constant human contact, in fact, too much is bad for me. I'm also apparently pretty far off-median on the Bell-curve in terms of the value I place on my privacy. YMMV.

[mythrwy]

You could suggest a private service if they want your participation.

Something like http://spokt.com