TMI

Too much information...  I think that's the world we live in today.  Technology brings us way too much information.  It overwhelms us.  It stresses us out.  We lose connection (no internet) and we go crazy.  We feel guilty for not being plugged in.  We feel naked without our on line tools. 

With all this information, we know about every disaster in the world.  Of course, we want to be educated... we want to be aware.  But at what cost?  The overwhelming information has us feeling everyone's pain.  We worry more and more about the world we live in.  While it's good to be aware, maybe we'd all be better off if we disconnected for awhile... if we just focus on those around us, we'd probably find this world isn't so bad after all.  For the most part, people are kind... and good.  The people around us will he there when we need them in the way we need them.  They will laugh with us when times are good.  They will cry with us when things are bad.  And they will help when it is needed. 

But of course, we need to be connected... we need to know what's happening in our world.  We can't live with our heads in the sand.  Sheltering ourselves is not the answer.  Afterall, the tools we have at our fingertips are powerful.  They connect us with lifelong friends.  They expand our circle of influence.  They help us to be more efficient.  They keep us available for our loved ones. 

With that in mind, finding a balance can be difficult.  Sometimes we just want to dissappear.  But... we feel guilty if we aren't available for our family or friends... we feel guilty if they can't reach us when they need us.  So we are always connected in some way aren't we?  For those of us who remember, there was a time everyone didn't have cell phones or the internet.  There was a time when we could not be reached 24/7.  And during those times we did just fine didn't we?  We were still able to lead healthy and happy lives. 

So, the next time you want to check out for an hour or two, don't feel guilty.  Think of it as a well needed mental break.  And the next time you call someone and they don't answer, don't be annoyed.  Remember they deserve the break.  Let them take it without giving them a guilt trip later.  And think about taking a break yourself...  maybe you need some time disconnected from the world! 

Now, I'm gonna log off facebook, close the internet down, and turn my phone off for an hour or two...  I am officially and without guilt posting the sign "Do Not Disturb" on my life and I'm gonna enjoy every minute of it!