The Phone or Conversation????

The Split Second-In Consideration of Others in These Trying Times

I want to continue discussing the “almighty” cell phone which is a significant part of my unpublished book The Split Second:  In Consideration of Others or Look Up from the Phone and How to Deal with Rudeness in Others. A glaring part of the subtitle is “Look Up from the Phone.” The cell phone has obviously made a huge impact on our society. However, I ask the question: are too many people so obsessed with the cell phone that they are constantly looking down at them or just plain consumed with them?

What saddens me too much is when I sit in a restaurant

and I see two people or even sometimes a whole family; however, there is no conversation taking place whatsoever. Now, I would not dictate that people absolutely have to have a conversation at the table. It is not a requirement of any kind. But one thing I treasure is the many times, my parents, my brother, and I would sit in restaurants and have conversations. My parents made my brother and me the focus of their attention, and I appreciate that more than ever now. I also remember instances when my ex-wife and I were mad at each other, and yet, at a restaurant, we would still muster some conversation. That is so funny to me now.

I have found it sad when I sit having brunch in a resort on the glorious island of Kaua’i, and I see families such as the one I grew up. However, all four members of the family are eagerly texting away. I say nothing to them, of course, but I would like to say, “Can’t you put your phones down and enjoy paradise?  I wonder if there are people out there who want to have their cell phones surgically attached to their hands. That might be a good idea for some.

Hey! The blogs continue to be short.