Well.. today I finally did it after thinking long and hard about it. I cancelled my land line phone and am relying on that easily misplaced cell phone. No more answering machine to look at for an occasional message to light my life and greet me. It almost feels like an important member of my family has suddenly up and left me. But then, it was my choice , wasn't it? So now, I will carry my little cell phone with me when I am out and about, tucked safely in my waist carrier pocket. Doesn't that sound silly?
It just goes to show how dependent we become when we attach ourselves to life's many luxuries which to us become necessities. Electric lights, running water, television, washers and dryers and so many more items which make life easier at the touch of a button. We are creatures of habit and get so used to things that we take them for granted.
I remember growing up when life was simpler and not dependent on today's modern conveniences. Perhaps there is a part of me that still yearns for the days when a family sat around the Zenith radio and listened to the Lone Ranger, the Cisco Kid, Jack Benny or hundreds of other wonderful radio programs. The thing is, listening to the radio, which by the way, had very little advertising, encouraged one's imagination to work and picture the characters in stories. Our minds brought them to life and it was all the more exciting. Also, we'd gather together sharing popcorn and kool aide or homemade root beer. It was together time as a family
With all of today's comforts to save labor and time, people still are too busy going about their lives and they do not seem to use their saved moments to be with family and friends as often as they could. I guess it is called the rat race, but we are not rats, we are unique individuals who have an important purpose for being here. Each one of us has talents and gifts that will enhance our little corner of the world and light the way for others. We need to connect in person with loved ones, to share conversation and hugs, the things that make life worthwhile.
Sometimes it is good to be without something we are dependent upon. It teaches us to simplify, in a small way and adjust to change. My cell phone is just another convenience to keep me connected to friends and family but I could live without it. Now the table that held the telephone is already decorated with a boquet of flowers and looking like it was made for just that.
A step towards simplicity is a step in the right direction. Let's get going.
