Etiquette with facebook messages from strangers?

[rimidis]

I post thoughts in a facebook motivational forum and some people (mostly men) contact me with friend requests or just messages saying a "hi" or "how are you". I am really not sure how to respond when am not feeling too inclined towards getting to know them. Should I just ignore? Though that sounds rude, to continue to post but never respond to them, who see your posts. I don't want to create bitter feelings. Or should I respond anyway out of politeness - though I don't want them to be encouraged by this. What would you do? Thank you.
Sue, it's a regular facebook page of a speaker/organization with a purpose.

[MADLUV]

you could what i do.

with one word answers. but honestly i got sick of it so i just don't use facebook anymore.

one of my favorites was (return to sender) in the subject line.

not accepting new friends at this time but thanks for the thoughts!!! take care!

[Sue B]

Dang, I've been on Facebook along time and didn't know there was a Forum to post. LOL There is NO RULE saying we have to respond to everyone, let alone anyone. It's Cyber Space, so who cares who is looking for attention or a response. I get many friend requests from people I know I went to school with, but many I can't even remember. Just because I accept their request, doesn't mean I go in and message them about anything. Don't worry about NOT responding. If your not there to get feedback, then no reason to have to respond.

[Bec]

Unless you want them to contact you again, I would say ignore them. I get requests from people I've never heard off (no mutal friends etc) and I just decline them - no message. I'm not interested in seeing how many friends I can get or anything