Disconnecting to Reconnect

Every now and again I come across an article that speaks to me and to the camp population. Today is one of those days.

I grew up in an era where there were no cell phones, no computers, and one phone in the house – a phone that initially had no call waiting. We took the phone off the hook during dinner, so we were not interrupted. I watched the reruns of the Jetsons, and thought the watches they spoke in to were  “cool” and here we are – living like the Jetsons. I imagine the flying cars are soon to follow. For me, coming to camp is an opportunity to go back to the time where all I did was play. I played with my friends, my family or just in my room. Incredible to think of that, and it wasn’t that long ago.

Cell phone usage has cost us the ability to have deeper, spontaneous conversations. It has changed all of our social interactions. We no longer have the benefit of eye contact, real empathy or the chance to connect in a meaningful way, because it is all done on the fly. Last night my almost four year old was talking to me and she said, “You are not listening.” I assured her I was. Her reply was priceless, She said, “No, you are playing on your phone, “ WOW even at four she knew I was not fully engaged. It bothered me, as I didn’t even realize it. We all need to realize it.

We receive calls year round regarding the use of technology and how it impacts our campers. Parents are grateful that their kids are unplugged at camp, and ask how do we do it at home. This article, gives some practical advice regarding limiting cell phone use and disengaging. Perhaps it will help you and your family, create some sacred space and or time.