Get Off the Phone

To say that we live in an information age is an understatement. To say that we are busier than ever, is also an understatement. You and I live in an age where we can communicate with almost anyone we wish anywhere in the world. We have telephones, cell phones, email, face book, twitter, and text messaging. We are connected like never before in history. Or are we?

The other day, my wife Mary and I were out for one of our long bike rides and we decided to stop and rest awhile on a bench at one of our city parks. It was a nice location in the shade of a tall oak tree and there was a nice breeze. We noticed a young mother and her toddler daughter walking near by and they had stopped to play in the water. At first it was a nice event to witness. Then we looked closer and changed our minds. The mother was spending her time talking to someone on the phone rather than interacting with her daughter. We watched for awhile then we rode on. In about 20 minutes we came back by the park and the mother and daughter were still there and yes, she was still on the phone.

Right then Mary and I took it upon ourselves to make a rule for all parents.

Rule: If you want credit for taking your children to the park you must stay off the phone.

Now I know there are important phone calls and I know that I have spend more than enough time talking on my phone, but there comes a time when you and I must decide what or who is important. As someone who has all of their children out the house (for the most part) I can tell all the young parents – SLOW DOWN.

That’s right, slow down, take your time, enjoy every moment with your children. Before you know it eighteen years will pass by and all your opportunities to spend meaningful time with your sons and daughters will be gone. Those walks through the park, those rides in the car, the game of catch or playing house will just be memories of a time that passed by too fast.

So, from one old guy who has been there – Get Off the Phone! Talk to your children. Discover their thoughts and ideas. Learn of their dreams for tomorrow. Dwell in their world of discovery, wonder and amazement. If you have teenagers the same go for you. Get Off the Phone! And get them off theirs as well. Talk with them about their dreams, struggles, joys, confusion, questions about life and love. Have meaningful conversation. Learn what makes them happy. Know what causes them frustration. Be a part of their life.

There will always be time for phone calls, but when you have the opportunity hang up the phone and give your total attention to those you love the most. Some day you will yearn for a call from your children and if you give them the time now they will give you the time then.

Got to go… My phone is ringing.

Love God. God Love Others.