It seems like everywhere you look, people are on their phones (though they are rarely actually speaking to someone) all the time.  They are always on, poised, and ready to go. They hold the phone firmly even when they are not using it – as if they were holding the hand of a small child while walking along a crowded street.  I wonder as I look over shoulders and furtively glance what are they doing?  Do they need to be on their phones all the time?

So when I decided an upgrade to my phone was past due (went from pre G (my term – clever huh – feel free to quote) to 4G), I told myself I would not be obsessive. “It’s just a phone,” I counseled myself. Yes, it will be nice to upgrade and certainly will be more convenient, but that is it. I don’t want to be perpetually on. No thanks – tune me out (teachers are used to that). 

I’m liking the phone – I really am! I’m checking email, going on line, and using the GPS. I love the convenience.  It’s not just me. My son borrows it all the time, particularly when we are in the car. He’s taking videos, snapping pictures, and watching video. He thinks the phone is cool. He thinks I’m cool. While I appreciate that thought, and am glad he is enjoying it, I have a concern. Will I become one of them? Will I also hold the phone and like Smeagol of Lord of the Rings start mumbling precious?  As I learn about more and more of the phones features, there is one which I must not forget to use – the off button. I know I can, I know I can.  Off is a good thing too.