I seem to be under the false perception that when attending a meeting with friends that the focus of the occasion should be the people attending and not the digital world available through one’s smartphone.
I write this piece because I have a couple of friends who periodically bring their phones out during dinner, or while having a conversation with them. I’ve talked to one of them about this behaviour and asked them to not to do the texting at the table thing because of how rude it is and sent the other subtle hints to the other via Facebook like this:
The idea of focusing on the people that you are with and not your phone does not seem to be rocket science to me. The digital world is forever and not accessing it for the 120 minutes that we are together won’t destroy you. I guarantee it.
But, as always, I am here to help and to educate thus using the power of Duck Duck Go I found this helpful chart. Voila! Problems solved all is well in the world. You’re welcome. :)
bleatmop
Mystro
Dead Wild Roses 
5 comments
July 13, 2016 at 6:35 am
tildeb
I’ve noticed how people going about their daily lives in public places immediately respond to those using Blue Tooth… with suspicion and mistrust and dislike, just as if the person were talking with him/herself and revealing some overt mental problems.
So, if first impressions mean anything to users of this technology, they may want to think about this negative social effect before thoughtlessly sharing a one-sided conversation in public.
LikeLiked by 1 person
July 13, 2016 at 7:23 am
makagutu
Cellphones will be the end of us.
Sometimes I leave mine in the car to be sure not to be distracted by it.
I have noticed dates where everyone is on the phone.
LikeLiked by 1 person
July 13, 2016 at 8:14 pm
bleatmop
I think looking things up during a conversation is an incredibly good use of a phone. It should be declared that is what you are doing and the result should be shared. I do it all the time. For instance, when you are debating what year Alberta became a province it quickly settles the issue and you can continue the conversation.
LikeLike
July 16, 2016 at 11:25 am
The Arbourist
@bleatmop
I think pragmatic use of smartphone is probably okay, it just when the phone takes precedence over the humans you happen to interacting with, is when the trouble starts.
LikeLiked by 1 person
July 16, 2016 at 1:32 pm
The Arbourist
@Tildeb
I’ve had this every experience. You know how you sort of light up when you’re about to experience a social interaction…
Well yah… I did that, and got a strange look as the person in question continued on by, carrying on with the person on the phone.
I felt quite silly. :)
LikeLiked by 1 person