As we take one step out of our doors, we make an effort to not forget our phones. A text, a scroll, a screen reaching for our attention. It is always a part of our day, making it hard to disconnect in the real world. Although people will end up going on their phones, there are times when using your phone around others is rude because you aren’t respecting their time and presence.
In a social setting, a conversation is in person, rather than through a phone. It takes into account how other people took the time to get there. Therefore, in the presence of others, common courtesy is paying attention to other people. Whether it's with family or friends, both require the same respect. At a family dinner, there is more pressure to listen because you are communicating with the people closest to you. Like others, I have the mutual rule that phones should be put away, so we are not distracted and only focused on togetherness. You wouldn’t want your parents to get angry or lose the value of sitting down as a family.
With friends, while it can be informal, it’s still rude to ignore others. It's more common since we’re so used to communicating with them through our phones that we forget to focus on when they are in front of us. Hanging out with friends is best experienced with them, and to use your phone, would take away from their reason for being with you. Your phone is a tool, not a companion.
Some may argue that people will end up using their phones anyway. This isn’t true unless a person sets off the chain reaction. All it takes is for one person to be uninterested and to tune out of a conversation because it's a natural impulse or a norm. They opt for the easy way out. The urge to check or take out their phone. It makes others feel like it’s okay to do this, and sooner or later, everyone is attached to their phone. It is simply rude to use your phone in the presence of others, especially when you are the initiator.
Disconnecting has never been more important in the digital age. There is no excuse for using your phone out of respect for other people’s time and presence. Live in the moment. Lose the phone.
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This is a great analysis of the world in the digital age. People easily miss out on memorable memories simply by taking out their cell phone. The reasoning you used to back up your position is relatable to everyone which makes it incredibly effective. One of my favorite lines is the closing line of “Live in the moment. Lose the phone.” These short and snappy sentences are such a good way to end the blog. I am glad that I read this blog, as I am guilty of doing some of these things. Thank you for your insight, Alexis. Amazing job!! :)
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