• Unconnected in a connected world
Unconnected in a connected world
By Duane Shimogawa Jr.- The Garden Island
I knew from the start thathaving a cell phone would be problematic once I began to dependon it like a family member.
However, it provided myself with a convenient way to stay connected with our ever so connected world.
I finally gave in to the cell phone buzz just four years ago, while in college.
I always thought that if someone wanted to get ahold of me, they’d have to leave a message on my land line.
But being a frequent traveler throughout the northwest, I realized that owning a cell phone would give me some piece of mind, while roaming throughout Oregon and Washington.
And it was probably one of my greatest investments at that time, however it got addicting.
Today, almost everyone on the island and throughout the country has a cell phone.
But for me, it’s going to be at least a week away from the wireless terror.
You see, on Thursday night, after another awesome meal from Sushi Bushido at the Anchor Cove Shopping Center, a couple of friends and I decided to take a night swim at Running Waters, near Whaler’s Brew Pub.
And guess what? Yes, my cell phone came along with me for the swim and I drowned it.
But at that time, I didn’t realize the consequences that would come later.
In the morning, Nat “Ocean’s 12” Childs was gracious enough to take me back to Running Waters to look for my cell, which was laying on the sand, lifeless.
Like many individuals, I utilized my cell phone as my home phone as well, so in essence, for the short span of time without my cell, I would have to stay unconnected and disgruntled.
It also gave me some time to think about the time before I used a cell phone.
Over the years, I began to view my phone as more of a convenience, than a security blanket for times of need.
I remember my first cell, which only had the bare necessities, like calling and text messaging.
Today, a cell phone can be used as a computer, with internet access, a camera, a flashlight, an FM radio, and more.
If I learned one thing from this whole ordeal, besides checking my pockets before I jump into the water, is that insurance is surely worth it.
And almost everyone I’ve talked to since the incident, has mentioned the “I” word, which makes my cringe, because it only costs a couple of bucks a month.
But I can only learn from this experience and it really isn’t that bad anyways considering the fact that this island is so small, that if I really wanted to get in touch with a friend or family member, all I’d have to do is just drive to their homes to see them.
I think we lose some personal connection when we depend on cell phones or phones in general, but don’t get me wrong, they provide a great avenue for us to keep in touch with others around the globe.
When I conduct interviews, I try my best to meet up with the individual in person, especially if it’s the very first time I’m meeting them.
There’s really no replacement for that one on one personal contact. Seeing the other person’s facial expressions are very important and I think we sometimes forget that, as we enjoy the fruits of the technology boom.
I know I won’t let that slip past my mind, especially since losing the services of my cell phone for a short period of time.
