Consider how distracted we are by cell phones in today's world. We have been conditioned to enter the matrix and ignore those around us on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter despite the situation.
Take a look around you. Most people are looking at their phones or digital device of choice. They might often look up to avoid tripping, but they're more interested in what's on their screens than who or what is around them. Kids are watching cartoons on phones and Ipads, parents are reading emails, and waiters are texting during a free moment between orders. I've seen couples sitting across each playing different video games on their iPhones. Maybe the date fizzled out; I'm not sure, but it felt like they were miles apart despite practically touching.
Nothing demonstrated this more than a recent trip to Disneyworld with my family. As I looked around the park, I was struck by how many individuals were looking down on what was likely a trip of a lifetime with loved ones—looking down at their phones. This new awareness was further reinforced when I encountered a New York-based photographer, Eric Pickersgill's project. He removed smartphones and digital gadgets from his photographs of everyday life. "Removed" is a project that aims to illustrate our dependency on modern technology, social media, and hyper-connectivity.
Take a moment to think of your life before cell phones. Can you? I'm sure the answer would be no. It's tough, not only tricky but near impossible, to imagine spending a day without one's phone. We've become reliant on our phones. If we lose it somewhere or drop it by accident, that's the end; we feel the world is coming to an end until we get it back or replace it with another one.
Take a moment to think of your life before cell phones. Can you?
However, this little gadget has begun to control us without our knowledge. It is never out of our site, and we unintentionally scroll through it. We are becoming addicted to it and entering the virtual world at an increasing rate, losing touch with reality.
I am not saying we should get rid of our cell phones and other digital gadgets. I'm not saying we should cancel our digital subscriptions, either. But we have to admit that our digital devices have affected how we see ourselves, the world, and the people around us.
National Day of Unplugging Is just one example of an opportunity to regain our perspective and purposely take a break from our gadgets and screens. This day is about disconnecting from our devices and reconnecting with the people and places in our lives. Take a break from social media. Read a book. Plant a tree. Bake a cake. Clean your room. Paint a picture. Meditate. Do something that engages your senses away from the distractions of technology. You can do it on this day or any day. Just take a break.
If we spend less time on the internet and on our phones and more time focusing on the people and physical surroundings, our bonds with those who matter will strengthen. Instead of tending to virtual friends, embrace your real ones. Life is better when we enjoy moments rather than viewing them.
Life is better when we enjoy moments rather than viewing them.