In the year 2016, communication has never been easier. In fact, if you want to share a thought with someone, you have plenty of ways to do so. Will you send a text, email, Facebook message, or take it a step further and FaceTime or Skype them? Nowadays, staying in touch with people who are not necessarily close in distance is as easy as entering your pass code and tapping your fingers. But what does that mean for your relationships with the ones who are in closer proximity? You know, those with whom you may share a home or life?
We are now accessible 100% of the time no matter where we are. Gone are the days of letter writing, logging onto the family computer, photo books, and planners - these have been replaced with emails, texts, and Instagram and can be accessed from the palm of your hand at any given time. Think about it. Generally speaking, everyone you know has a cell phone - Mom, Dad, little sister Susan, and Grandpa Ernie and because of this you expect them to pick up or respond back to you almost instantly whenever you reach out, right? Technology has increased our demand for instant gratification and decreased our levels of patience.
Growing up, I was part of the era before everyone had a cell phone. In my earlier years, the only people who possessed these were doctors, lawyers, and other people who held important roles. A cell phone was considered a luxury for most people, even adults. As I got a little older, they became more of a commodity and my parents were even gracious enough to get me one in high school. However, these days, if you don't have a cell phone you are nearly ostracized. Think about it, why would anyone want to date or befriend you when they wouldn't have access to you all hours of the night and day?
As we draw closer to those who are near in heart but further in distance, many times, we tend to forget our relationships with those who are sitting right next to us. Sure, you think, Amanda is sitting right here next to me, I don't need to make as much of an effort as I do with Sarah who lives 1,000 miles away. While it is important to take advantage of the advances in technology in order to stay connected to your long-distance friend's life, it's also important to remember the person sitting beside you who is waiting for you to put down the phone or tablet. So, Google the new pizza place in town and download the new app to order your dinner, but don't forget to unplug and share your meal and your time with those around you.
