(Photo by Ron Lach)
Communication. There’s so many ways to communicate these days. But back when I went to high school we relied on the same mode that kids do today:
The telephone.
Except that when I went to Timmins High & Vocational School we had landlines. Yup, a real big chunky phone, attached to a wall, or sitting on a table somewhere. With a long, long cord that could reach to the bedrooms.
Growing up in the 80’s things were definitely simpler, but technology was much bulkier back then. And yet it seems that whether it was 1987 or 2023 the phone is still the preferred mode of communication between friends.
Today’s technology is amazing. Yet I can’t help but worry that cell phones have actually widened the distance between people.
For one thing, I don’t know that many people that actually use their phone to CALL someone. And SPEAK. Text seems to be preferred vehicle these days. Well, except for those really annoying, clueless people who think facetiming with their spouses at a store is ok (privacy has obviousy taken a backseat nowadays).
I’ve also seen lots of folks who prefer to “interact” and have “friendships” (and some “relationships”) online. I’m thinking strictly messaging over WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok and the rest. I'm not sure if these are real, actual friendships, beyond brief comments and emoji exchanges.
Obviously my age is showing, but growing up my friends and I used to spend hours talking on the phone. Actually getting to know each other. I have to wonder whether that’s still happening today.
But back to the main point and cell phones.
Despite everything, I love cell phones. They offer such convenience in mere instants. As a business owner, I can’t imagine not having one. And the obvious side benefit is that I do get to send friends a quick message, a fun meme, or even an email to see how they are. The speed and quick access to news and information is priceless. I remember my mom telling me “OMG, did you now Whitney Houston died????” And my response was, “mom, that was the news 12 hours ago.”
Here’s the bottom line. Regardless of how you choose to stay in touch with friends, these days we have lots of ways to do it. Growing up my family couldn’t afford to call our relatives in South America long distance. These days calling long distance anywhere in North America is just part of the package. And WhatsApp helps everyone connect with overseas relatives.
Cell phones have made our lives easier, without a doubt. And what they do provide is a way to stay in touch. It’s up to each of us to decide what that means...and then make it work. Because the fact that I can carry on a friendship with someone in Germany is simply amazing to me. Someone I hadn’t even met seven years ago.
If you haven't connected with a friend in a few months, hopefully this post will encourage you to reach out and text-or call. You choose.