Communication from Talking to Texting

Article in brief: verbal communication is at a threat of disappearing as a result of strong attachments to mobile phones.

Mobile technology developments have affected our lives both positively and negatively. However, I would like to touch upon a particular downside of mobile technology, i.e., its capability of killing direct communication between all of us today. I began noticing that most of the time when I sit with my friends, family, or colleagues, everyone is on their mobile phones. Regardless of their age or interests, everyone is hooked to his or her phone and deeply engaged with some form of social media. Cellular technology has indeed developed significantly since it was first introduced in the 70’s, but in my opinion, there is limited capacity for personal interaction because of technology. I miss having conversations with people who appreciate the meaning of communication.

In a world filled with instant messages, tweets and video content messages, are we communicating any better? Is it really hard to let go of the technology that sits in the palm of our hands for more than 12 hours a day? Can we manage to control our addiction to virtual interactions? I’m not saying we should cut back on using the internet or communicating through the internet, instead, I’m saying we should at least respect each other when we go out, have long unforgettable conversations, laughs, and a memorable time.

The other day I was sitting in a café reading a book. I couldn’t help but notice the people sitting on the tables around me hooked on their phones, no one is talking or interacting, sounds are buried, and eyes are focused solely on the screen. It was disturbing, and my heart ached at first, seeing what has become of society. I’m not against technology at all, rather I’m upset that it’s slowly sucking the soul out of our time with family and friends. It seems like something we can’t escape away from.

Today, I can almost always guarantee that at least one person is holding a conversation with another individual using their phone. A conversation could take place face to face, but we can’t be certain that everyone is paying full attention, or that it contains much depth. With a focus on conversations through technology, it is harder to maintain our relationships with those physically near us. Unfortunately, this trend will continue as technology advances and we move further into the digital age. We are losing our humanity through losing our interests outside of the Internet world.

I agree that technology does indeed make our lives better, but it is not making us any better in terms of verbal communication. I am sure there are people out there who are not as attached to their phones as others, and can perfectly manage and control the level of mobile engagement and have great social interaction when with their family or friends. But for those who can’t, I do suggest that the next time you head to a gathering you try to keep your phone away and enjoy the moment with the loved ones. Perhaps if you are the hostess you could politely gather all the phones and put them away for a period of time. At the end of the day, the beauty of a social gathering inspires us to be alive, joyful, and thankful.