Talk
In my day, when I saw someone on the street talking to himself, I assumed the person was delusional. When someone asked a question, I answered it. When I ate at a restaurant, no bells interrupted my meal, my companions seemed interested in what I had to say and vice versa, and performances were generally interrupted only by an occasional cough or the clearing of a throat. All that has changed. I've learned that the apparently delusional may not be delusional after all, that random questions probably aren't for me and that uninterrupted performances and meals may be a thing of the past. The reason: cell phones.
I don't have a cell phone, so I feel increasingly old-fashioned. But I also feel increasingly blessed by my ability to enjoy moments of peace when no one can reach me. I don't feel so important that I must be connected by phone at all times. Even though I value my time, the few seconds saved by the use of cell phones doesn't seem to me critical. I know I'm part of a decreasing minority but I enjoy not using a cell phone, if only for the shocked and disbelieving looks I get when I announce the fact.
I know that cell phones are sometimes important. The lonely traveler, the stranded motorist, people who need help of various kinds can and should rely on them for their comfort and safety. But there is a growing annoyance with the rudeness of some cell phone users. I've read that the proposal to allow cell phones on airplanes has been greeted with dismay by many air travelers. I've read that some people try to jam cell phone frequencies to prevent untimely use in performances and the like. I see signs in restaurants and other public places reading "No Cell Phones".
The answer is clear: As with all modern technology, use it if you must but consider others when you use it. As with everything you do, think about the effect of your conduct on others. In that way, we will accomplish what we need to accomplish without hurting others. And, after all, that's the key: Be nice to others in everything you do. As I continue to say, being polite is free and brings great returns, if only in the pleasure we can take in doing our best to be good people.
3-21-05
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