Starting this weekend, I’ve quieted my world. An easy hush has filtered into my home. I’ve never realized the impact of social media on the “noise” level in my life. My cell phone jingling and vibrating with messages of friends I follow. And make no mistake—they are friends. Those I follow on my cell phone are those I know personally, and “hearing” their voices through effortless technology, is a good way to keep up—to make sure they’re doing well. And if they aren’t, I’m inclined to pray for them. And likewise.
Yet, starting two days ago, I turned off Twitter (on my cell and computer). And I’ve purposely stayed away from Facebook. Truth be told? With the personal stress of recent weeks, I’ve needed friends with “skin on” not unseen voices through my mobile phone and computer. Don’t get me wrong. I’ve received substantial support—prayer and understanding—from many through the social media venue. And I’m grateful.
Yet I needed to quiet the technology buzz in my mind for a couple of reasons:
1) I needed to cast all my cares on the One who loves me most, and I needed to be able to hear Him.
2) I needed to truly speak to my family and friends—and truly hear them in return.
What did we do before the days of social media? How did we keep up with our friends? How did we meaningfully communicate with one another? Have we lost the art of true communication? And if we have, how can we create a kind of communication balance in our lives?
I don’t have any easy answers. I just know I’m taking a tech break. Not because I’m tired of it. Not because I’m no longer interested. But, because I need quiet for a time. You know, so I can hear the still small voice of my Father God. And so I can be more intentional and personal in my relationships.
It’s time, and I’m ready. It won’t be easy. I’ll miss the techno-banter. But a season of quiet never hurt anyone (at least I don’t believe it has). And who knows? Maybe my computer will serve another purpose in a more precise way. Maybe… I’ll begin my writing journey again.
Maybe…
Lord, Your Way, Your Truth, Your Light. Your Will.
I’m listening…
"Be still and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth." (Ps. 46:10 NIV)
Yes, Lord.
A Bit About Me...
- Sharen Watson
- Living moment-by-moment, breath-by-blessed breath, knowing each second is sacred to God. Though He lives not in our time, He is with us constant. And we with Him. "See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands." Isaiah 49:16
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5 comments:
Again I am blessed by your tender heart for the Lord. Your willingness to obey the Lord inspires me to listen for His still small voice in my life. Thank you dear friend! Your are greatly loved and appreciated.
From My Heart to Yours,
Carla
Thank you, Carla. We share the same tender heart for our Lord, don't we? I just knew it was time - to take time.
I have been thinking about this a lot. I would like to break away from FB, but then I think of all the old friends I've connected with. I wonder if I would hear from them at all if I stepped away.
And we've become used to hearing all the details of our friends' lives. So it will leave an empty space even in the relationships that are strong. But I could learn to live without that. I used to function just fine without knowing what my friends had for dinner. :)
Another reason I feel I should stay is to monitor my kids.
I'm still working through this, but I applaud your decision to unplug!
Mrs. Watson!!
I wish I could do this! I've considered so many times recently just deleting my facebook and if someone wants to talk than they could find another way to communicate with me. But I'm too afraid I would lose friends because my generation, like you said, is all about technology and that's it. No one knows how to communicate face to face anymore. Which is also why I try to write letters, more personal I feel, but only 3 of my friends will actually write back. It makes me sad. But I fully respect you taking a break, and who knows maybe I will try to follow and take a break to spend time with those who are actually here for me. Also, thank you for everything you have done for me! You are an amazing person and I'm happy to still have you in my life.
Jess
I hope you aren't taking a break from Skype. I've been trying to get ahold of you.
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