Before I get laughed out of my sweet sleepy little town here in Norton, (or at least by my preteen daughter) I must premise this post by saying – I know I am in the minority here…. I believe I am officially the only person left who does not find today’s multitude of options available on the “information super highway” remotely exciting. Actually, even the idea of making a cell phone purchase causes my stomach to ache. I know.. I know.. The same forum that brings my written word to you – simultaneously brings me both enjoyment and high levels of anxiety.
In my defense- I mean, I grew up during the 80s – my first computer was the “Texas Instrument 99/4A”. I learned to program the bulky tool to repetitively say “I love you” on the computer screen – and that was an “advanced” skill. My cell phone was called a car phone and was literally incapable of holding a battery charge unless strapped and plugged into the car’s cigarette lighter. I remember my mother banning MTV once we got cable. Is it bad that now Comcast on Demand overwhelms me? I am still trying to figure out the parental controls – never mind remember the password.
Too many options.
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Anyways, it seems to me that these communication gadgets and entertainment tools are expensive and invasive. I am sure families are starting to have to pick and choose such luxuries carefully. I personally know that raising a family of four children on one income is challenging. Having me stay home with our kiddos has been a rewarding personal choice but it has involved some sacrifices. My kids do not own IPods, Xbox or the like– I guess they do own generic versions of things that provide similar entertainment options. But, my kids are small and still like to play outside, ride their bikes and collect bugs. I am sure my oldest child will be itching to “keep up” with her peers soon enough… and this makes me sad… I can’t help feeling she will lose something if and when she gains access to these things. I wish I could just stop time... is there something that does that?
Texting, Facebook, Twitter… UGH…
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Well, on the bright side! Maybe the plus of all this is that kids can now attend "virtual" college classes from home -- dressed in their pajamas!! (It is true! I saw it on TV!) This could mean that my husband and I will be able to save money on room and board and even clothing for our college age children when the time comes! Maybe -- they can even “virtually” get married via “Skype” one day and I will only have to worry about the internet connection expense!! All kidding aside… I am not sure I can protect my kids from their journey into the vast unsafe world that lies ahead. My bet is that one day soon my children will roll their eyes at their “Tech Un-savvy” Mom and dismiss her opinions as they would swat at a pesky mosquito. (Sigh..)
Hey! But do you know what? As of right now -- my kiddos choose sitting around the camp fire on summer evenings telling stories. It appears that playing with Play-doh, Scrabble, Lite-Brite and Etch A Sketch still bring smiles to all ! And, this is ok with me.
To all you parents feeling the same -
HITAKS(hang in there and keep smiling..)