Has the age of technology taken over? What do I mean by that question? Let me explain. I love technology just like anyone else, but what I've noticed with today's youth is that the art of conversation is lost.
Our youth connect via computer, emails, online chats, not to mention texting. Have you noticed your cell phone bill, I mean actually studied it? The average youth today will text over 10,000 messages a month. That is scary! Have we become so attached to our electronics that we no longer take the time to converse, in person? I've seen it first hand where my child will be texting at the speed of light. I'll ask her if it will be easier to just dial the number and speak to the person. Her response, "Mom, I don't want to talk to them, it's easier to text". My response was one of astonishment!
Sure, we can blame society and all the pressures placed upon our youth of today, but let's face it..we are to blame as well. Can we live without our phones, computers, or any other type of electronic we may use? Are we passing this down to our children? Are we doing them a dis-service? Imagine your child at a job interview and they are unable to look the person in the eye, much less put several sentences together.
It's sad, but true. Electronics are an addiction. We've decided to limit the use of electronics in our home and get back to the basics. You guessed it.. we are conversing, we are debating, we are actually doing this without the use of an electronic gadget!
Can you take this challenge? Can you unplug for the sake of your family? Sounds crazy but stay with me here. Turn off the television and spend some quality time with your family and friends. It may feel awkward at first, but with several days into this experiment you will be amazed.
Dust off the games, the actual board games, puzzles, checkers, cards, etc and place them on the table. Your children will start to migrate to those so-called old-fashioned games and you will engage in true conversation. It works! We've done it and although there are times that the competition streak will take over, we are connecting, truly connecting.
Take the challenge and begin with 1 to 2 hours at a time. You'll be amazed how you can detach from the addiction to the use of electronics. Let's face it, it has become a part of all of our lives, but we don't have to let them ruin our relationships. Go outside, enjoy the fresh air. Read together, cook together, enjoy your family, friends and strengthen your relationships. Share your thoughts and tell me what your family thinks of the challenge.
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