“The desire for safety stands against every great and noble enterprise.” ― Tacitus
This quote makes me wonder, just what is our desire for safety?
In posing this question I do not intend to imply that I am speaking of safety as it might relate to criminal activity against our person but rather personal safety over which we have much control. In my observation it appears to me that in recent years many of us have neglected our personal safety in lieu of our attachment to electronic devices, namely – cell phones.
Let me explain …
In preparation for writing a column on this topic, I have kept a log of how many times I have either witnessed safety issues or occurrences where I have been the potential victim. I imagine that many of you have experienced similar issues. And let’s face it – those of us of a certain age do not need more safety hindrances in our lives! So here goes.
People strolling across parking lots engrossed in looking down into their cell phones.
I have often wondered if they are reading a novel, looking at darling family photos, or simply unable to look away from that very important text about some celebrity. These people wander aimlessly through the lot with an iron grip on their devices with no concern about large mechanical, fast-moving vehicles which could cause them great harm. The drivers of these vehicles are forced to slam on brakes, be prepared for quick maneuvers to avoid those mesmerized by their phones while hopefully not staring at their own very important messages. In the past two months I have witnessed this common scenario nearly 50 times and actually nearly been run down in a parking lot by a distracted texting driver!
People who are shopping and suddenly stop in the middle of the aisle to consult their very important messages causing other shoppers to nearly hit them and cause others to back up as well.
Not only have I nearly run into those people (21 times in two months) but I have also had those pushing carts while texting/reading run into me (17 times in two months) and that is quite uncomfortable. In fact, typing (texting) or reading a text alters a pedestrian’s gait, speed, and walking pattern, according to a recent study by the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.1 If you wish to learn more about the injury statistics log on to the website noted at the bottom.)
Dear Readers, once upon a time in this land of long ago, we were able to leave our homes and forage about without clutching a cell phone to our bodies for dear life. Just the other day I realized I forgotten my phone and nearly turned around to drive back and then I thought … WHY? So, I journeyed on my merry way and tasted freedom … you might want to try that sometime.
In reflection, I believe the only time I truly suffered by not having a phone attached to my body was as a 15-year-old when I was forced to spend a few summer Sunday afternoons on my parents’ boat and did not have that teenage direct line to my friends for several hours. Guess what I did instead? Enjoyed the waves, the picnic, and a good read. My friends were still there when I returned to shore.
Technology is great and has, mostly, been a boon to business and personal productivity. However, I challenge you – and myself – to a “cell-free day” once in a while. As we spend far more time on our phones and computers than we realize, you might find you have more time for a nature hike, catching up on your latest book, talking with a friend (in person), playing with your dog, having a spa day, or even maybe writing a book or … a newspaper column?
Sharon McMahon, CNWC
The opinions expressed in this article are not intended to replace advice of your personal physician or licensed health professional. Please consult your physician for any issues you may have related to nutrition or fitness activity.
I agree Ms. McMahon! In addition to your thoughtful observations on personal safety while walking, we’ve ALL observed vehicle drivers slowing down, then spending up even though such distracted driving is criminal.
But, of course, your bigger point is the place in many peoples’ hearts and minds where cell phones live today. Make no mistake, Americans have a worshipped idol… what else would one call something permanently glued to their hands, looked at constantly, talked to happily, touched emphatically and never far from their life’s experiences?
On safety… consider our abandon of PRIVARY! I appreciate that if asked ALL will declare their personal privacy is important… who would claim they care nothing about their personal privacy? Yet 99% of Americans FREELY sell their personal information to any and, indeed, ALL that ask anything from them.
Yes, I’m that ONE person that doesn’t have an Apple account, google account, access to either the Apple or Play store, nor non-native apps on my phone. My location finder and GPS are turned off and I receive no weather reports, ads, pop-ups or other privacy concerns. I estimate I’m 95% invisible to most safety and privacy risks that everyone else experiences. (Phone banking and finances? NUTS!)
I read a couple dozen books a year, exercise daily, talk to people in-person, text pictures to loved ones occasionally and never consider what next shiny thing will demand my attention.
Ms. McMahon, EVERY day is “cell free” day for me… If I could bottle it’s joys I’d make a fortune!