This past week, I had the opportunity to spend an absolutely amazing week in Pennsylvania with some of the most incredible people. While making some new memories, I made a horrible realization. While I should be embracing every possible second with my loved ones, I was instead missing out on so many new memories because I was distracted. I know in my heart it is not just me, in fact, anywhere you go, if you look around you, will see others on their phones in the worst places. My husband I have noted people on dates at nice restaurants both staring at screens instead of gazing into each others' eyes. Parents on their phones at amusement parks and playgrounds--completely missing their children growing up.
It's an epidemic. It's an addiction. And it is a huge problem, that will leave us all with a world of regret as we age and look back on our lives. I, for one, do not want to look back and think of all the time I wasted because I was too locked on a screen to notice.
I also realize that it is a necessary evil. We use our devices for work and to stay in contact, both a blessing a curse. I do not expect people to truly give up their phones or other devices. Rather, what I do hope for is a change in perspective.
When is the last time you truly experienced something? Used all 5 of your senses to immerse yourself in the moment--how it looked, how it sounded, how it smelled, how it tasted, how it felt. I did this for the first time in a long time this week. I sat on the beach at Lake Erie, watching my daughter and her cousin play in the water. I listened to their laughter and watched the joy on their faces. I smelled the lake air, and later that day even tasted my first orange and vanilla ice cream!
Research suggests that when you use as many senses as possible you increase the likelihood that the memory will stick (read more here: http://www.articlesfactory.com/articles/self-help/improve-your-memory-by-using-all-your-senses.html). So for me, my time on Lake Erie will not easily be forgotten, and for that, I am so grateful!
I encourage each of you to do the same. Put your device in your pocket, and truly experience the little moments that become the fabric of our lives. I will tell you from personal experience, that it has made me happier.
Memories are more than a screen. Start creating yours today!!
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