Set Backs in the guise of Progress.....

The days of waiting until we get home to make calls, read our mail, enjoy dinner and perhaps some family time are just about over. One night while relaxing with my family, I looked around smiling, enjoying the moment of having some quality time watching TV with them. Well, the smile faded as I realized that while we were all in the same room, everyone was quietly focused in the palm of their hands. Some smiling, intense stares and focused typing. This was an eye opener for me.

I am one for progress, I marvel at the latest forms of technology - it reminds me of the days when the Jetsons had all the gadgets and such that at the time in my mind seemed far fetched. Here we are in 2010, people are walking alone both arms swinging along and they are in a full blown conversation. There was a time when I actually thought they were talking to me - I'm sure that might have happened to others.

The computers at the office became available for families to have their own desk top which gradually became smaller and slicker. Of course not long after came the laptops. Laptops, Notebooks, Side Kicks, Black Berry,I Phone you name it, there's a hand held device that can keep you informed on a need to know right this instant basis.

Just recently, I reluctantly purchased a Black Berry and I am now glued to that device. However, there is a time out that we should all take. We need to take the time out to share some quality time with our family. In addition, there is an important health conce
as it relates to the cell phones and other hand held devices.

Think you should only watch out for drunk drivers or those under the influence of drugs? Not any more, there have been reports of accidents that involved drivers, train conductors/operators, etc. who have lost control while trying to text and drive. Needless to say, the results were fatal. Oprah has taken on the call to have us all pledge not to text or talk on cell phones while driving. Unfortunately, there are many who feel that they can handle driving and talking/texting just because they have the self proclaimed skills.

There are several Public Service Announcements that are aimed at bringing an awareness to the dangers of using the hand held devices while driving. Let us not brush this off. We have made so much progress, let's use it wisely and live to enjoy what else is ahead.