A few days ago I went out to dinner with some friends who introduced me to a new habit used while eating with others. Everyone had to stack their phones one on top of the other right in the middle of the table as soon as we were sat. For the duration of the meal no one is allowed to check their text messages, view social media notifications, play games, or make phone calls. Basically, your phone is non existent for that time period. The truth is, with the increase in communication via technology devices, many have become frustrated with the barrier this has created in actual human communication. In order to break the barrier, people are now taking matters into their own hands.
Throughout the years, sharing meals has been regarded as a symbol of unity and time spent together. That symbolism seems to have changed due to the appearances of portable devices at the table. Phones, tablets, video games, and iPods are just a few of the gadgets that are now commonly used by people of all ages. It is understandable why in most situations, the recreational use of these devices at the dinner table leads to negative results. Parents who are trying to build a stronger bond with their kids are often left ignored due to the ongoing text messages from their kids’ friends. Couples who intend to have a strong relationship are constantly interrupted by phone calls, messages and notifications. Although we do not often think about this, many other scenarios like these take place each day within homes and restaurants all over the world.
Smartphones and other portable devices have been incredible tools that have made our lives easier. However, at what point do we break the barrier they have created between us and those we care about? Allow these devices to help you in the ways they are supposed to. No one is saying that it is bad to check your Facebook or text often, it is just a matter of finding a balance of knowing when it is appropriate to do these things, and when it is better to just put everything in the middle and have a normal face-to-face conversation.
Do you have any of your own “phone in the middle-like” tactics for keeping technology out reach?