Beyond The Internet

As I write this from my office on the Santa Monica promenade, watching all the people below walk by, doing what they do in their daily lives, I’m reminded of one of the real dangers of the Internet.

I’m not talking about phishers or predators, although those threats are very real. I’m referring to losing touch with our fellow human beings. In this world of the information superhighway, where anything we want or need is a click away, it’s easy to forget why face-to-face interaction is important. But it is important. Traveling to work, getting into your cubicle, performing your online business, then going  home and ordering stuff on Amazon while having food delivered and talking in a chat room is no way to live.

Fortunately, I work in an office of congenial, life-loving folks who don’t mind taking a few moments to stop by and say hello. If you don’t, maybe you should become that person. When you get home, consider taking a walk outside instead of hopping right on to your favorite online Mah-Jongg site.

Don’t get me wrong, the Internet is great and I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t believe in its awesome power. But it should be used to enhance our daily lives, not as a substitute for them. Now get out there and make some friends.

 

--Craig Berger