Thought for the month | Word on the Wash 2020
Digital Disconnection– Adam W
Feeling disconnected in a connected world?
We live in an extraordinary time. Technology has advanced at such a speed that we can connect to anyone, wherever we are — so why are people feeling more disconnected than ever, is information overload impacting our mental health and how can we find peace in all of this?
Some figures
It’s now reported that 3.4 billion people are regularly using social media to connect and within that its estimated that the upcoming generation of 12-15 year olds now spend over 20 hours a week accessing various social media accounts.
Information overload
Smartphones have enabled us to break free from the restrictions of our desk, allowing easy access of information at the swipe of a finger. Through access to services like WhatsApp, you can create multiple groups to share masses of information anytime, so you are in the know about everything- whether you wanted to know or not.
Managing our relationships with technology
Yes it’s easier than ever to connect, but are these real connections? It’s easy to send a message or engage in an emotional conversation digitally without actually showing any real emotion.
When was the last time you have met up with a friend to have a conversation over coffee instead of a WhatsApp thread? We are social beings and you’d think social media would enable us even more, but is it? It seems we’ve been so stuck in technology and communicating through devices, that a conversation with Alexa or Siri seems more the norm.
Finding peace in a digital age
I personally love technology and the benefit it brings but it’s our relationship and application of this that can become an issue. In any good relationship, you need a framework of trust and so it is important to set boundaries with the use of technology and understanding the physical and mental issues that can arise from such intense experiences.
Have you felt disconnected recently despite all the ways to connect that we have and how can you find peace in this modern digital age?
The bible tells us: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
If you are feeling disconnected or overwhelmed today, in a quiet time try this prayer: Lord, there are so many things in my day that demand my attention. Sometimes, the digital noise is overwhelming– my mind feels cluttered drowning out Your voice. Help me to listen for Your whispers and know Your peace. Amen.