We are such a fast paced busy society. The 21st century has us overbooked, over stressed, and completely disconnected with each other. We are families with busy careers and too many activities. The time spent face to face with each other is being replaced with being shoulder to shoulder in the car distracted by some sort of gadget. I Pods, cell phones, and video games have replaced real human interaction. Families used to treasure the time around the dinner table just sharing and talking, creating strong family bonds. Now, it’s a race to throw something in the microwave or visiting the drive thru in between activities. We are losing the true purpose and beauty of life and our families are missing out on the deep bonds that make family so precious.
Don’t get me wrong, I love social media. I have reconnected with friends, “watched” families grow through shared pictures, and kept up to date on all the happenings of family and friends near and far. I love reading blogs and having answers to questions only a Google search away. But, I am not cultivating real relationships by starring at a screen all day, actually just the opposite is happening. We are becoming an anti social culture losing our ability to have meaningful person to person relationships.
Having a presence is social media is fantastic and can be incredibly beneficial. It is a great tool to reach masses, connect, and network. Placing limits, especially for our children is vital. We need to give them plenty of opportunities to be disconnected and let them have the chance to develop organic imaginative play, learn social cues and interaction, develop critical thinking skills, proper communication skills, and time to build lasting strong relationships. In order for my family to see the value of disconnecting I have to demonstrate healthy social media habits.
I found myself slipping lately. My son called me, “laptop mommy” the other day, YIKES! I don’t want to be remembered as the mom who wasted her day in front of a screen “Liking” someone else’s memories; I want to be making my own. Imposing healthy limits on myself will keep me mindful of what is valuable and meaningful. The importance on being present in your home and limiting outside distractions be it social media or too many activities will have positive impacts on children especially as they grow into their teen years. Having meals together and making time for each other will greatly reduce the likelihood that your children will abuse drugs and alcohol and they will experience a greater sense of joy and satisfaction not just with their family but life in general.
I am making the commitment to reconnect and be present with those I am with and focus on things that have eternal value.
What are some steps you take to limit computer, cell phone, extra curricular activities, etc..? I would love to hear from you! As always, thanks for taking the time to visit.
~Be Blessed and be a Blessing~
Rebecca
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