I just got my first cell phone. Actually I’m taking over my brother’s account on a cell phone he doesn’t use and doesn’t want to pay for. I’ve resisted getting one for a long time. I don’t like talking on the phone and they became more and more popular and it was EXPECTED that everyone should have one I, being contrary like I am, refused to do what was expected. It seemed as if too many people were run by their phones. But there have been just enough situations where I thought, hmmm, a cellphone would be convenient right now, and I gave in. While getting it all transferred from my brother to me has been a pain that made me want to go back to phoneless communication, I have decided that it’s ok to own a cell phone. I don’t have to like talking on the phone, this isn’t going to change that, but it will be there when I need. It is going to serve my purpose, not the other way around.
There are a lot of rules and advice about writing. Anyone trying to get published is inundated and often terrified of the things we have to be aware of. But like my new phone those rules are here to serve us, not the other way around. Not every manuscript has to follow all the advice all the time. The info is there when we need it to help solve a problem with our writing. I’m going to make the knowledge work for me. However if I want the knowledge to be there when I need it, I have to start looking for it now. I can’t wait until I break down then get the phone.
Funny you should say that ... I completely agree with your thoughts on using the technology, not letting the technology use you ...
ReplyDeleteMy wife neglected to put the top of her water bottle on straight yesterday and drowned the contents of her purse, including her 8 year old cell phone. No amount of shaking and drying would resurrect the poor old dear thing.
We discussed the possibility of getting her a smart phone that's basically a mini computer, with all the bells and whistles.
But in the end opted for another ordinary garden variety cell phone that will take the occasional picture, send a text message or two, and ring when someone wants to talk to her.
We know our time for smart phones is impending as both our writing careers are about to launch, but it's only impending ... not here yet.
I definitely agree that technology can take over our lives if we let it. In fact, there are many things that can take over our life if we let it. Balance is key. I have a friend who is constantly holding, looking at, checking things on her phone and it kind of drives me crazy. Like, hey, I'm here, talk to me! But I also think technology can be an amazing tool if used correctly.
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