The other day I was out to eat at a Hibachi restaurant near my house. For those of you who do not know, Hibachi is when you have your food cooked in front of you by a chef, at a big table. These tables usually fit 10-12 people. The chef usually puts on a small show for the people at the table. From a small volcano made out of onions, to throwing shrimp in the air and catching it in his shirt, the Chef always entertains me. Every time I go I am captivated by how perfectly they have perfected their craft.

It was at this moment when I noticed the strangest thing. As I looked around the table, I noticed that EVERYONE was on their phone and no one was viewing the show. No one was talking to each other. I realized that this sort of thing happens almost every day and it’s sad. We as a society are constantly looking down at our phones and this can be detrimental to our communication skills or our lives. Instances of this can be seen at sporting events, parties, and even in school.

These people who are constantly on their phones, are missing out on what is happening around them. Instagram, Facebook and Twitter will still be there after you spent time with your family or friends. However, if you decide to spend all of your time on your phone, would you even be making memories at all? Social media is not even real. You shouldn’t be spending more time with your phone screens than with your family. When thinking of some of the best memories I have ever had, I know I was not spending time on my phone. I bet most of you reading this would say the same thing.

The thing is, most people do not like to “stop and smell the roses” anymore. Everything is so fast paced and everyone needs items as soon as they come out. People are so obsessed about the future, that they cannot even enjoy what they have in front of them. Instead of checking emails go for a walk. Instead of taking selfies, look up from your phone and give your parents a call. We as a society take so much for granted. There are places around the world where you can’t access internet at all. It is important to remember how lucky we are.

The next time you’re looking down at your phone, think to yourself, “how long have I actually been looking at my phone screen?”. Each day is a new day to make friends and create stronger relationships. Make an attempt to have better conversations with others. I know most people like to text, but why not call each other once in awhile? With the path our society is on, it seems as though our conversations will get weaker and weaker over time. And maybe the next time you go to a Hibachi restaurant, don’t go on your phone at all and enjoy the show!