Over this past weekend, I led a religious retreat for college students. There were several rules and expectations for the students attending the retreat; they were expected to not leave their cabins at night, listen to the staff members and to keep an open mind about the retreat. Everyone seemed excited and completely understanding of the rules. However, there was one that one of the other girls on staff and I were terrified to say so we saved it until last. We took a deep breath and told them that they would have to give up their cell phones until Sunday evening.

Of course we were met with shock from every single person there. How were they supposed to survive the weekend? What about their family members? How would they be able to get up? Both the other girl and I reassured them that everything would be taken care of and that if an emergency came up we would give them back their phones.

To staff's shock, some of the retreaters on Sunday did not want their phones back. One girl spoke about how her phone was a distraction and how it was nice to just step back from life sometimes. I reflected about her statement for awhile after she said it and realized it was so true.

Life on this Earth unfortunately has an expiration date for everyone. We should try to take advantage of every single moment that we have. One of the biggest ways we can do this is if we put down our phones to truly experience life. You cannot experience life by living vicariously through your friend's Facebook post about how they are eating the best sandwich ever. Instead of liking that post and commenting, "Oh my gosh we need to go together," put down your phone, get in the car and drive to get a sandwich too! Better yet, get into your car, get the sandwich, grab some friends, put down your phone and have a picnic!

We shouldn't need something like a retreat be the only reason we give up our phones. Instead of checking your notifications when you wake up, go outside and take a nice walk around your neighborhood. I guarantee that you will feel less bombarded and more refreshed. Stop letting life pass you by, and stop to smell the roses.