A Birthday Post

​Originally published May 10, 2017

She turned 14 yesterday. I don’t know how it is possible. I can’t believe she is all grown up. I can’t believe that I am one of those moms now saying it goes so fast.

I am grateful that for her birthday she asked me to go out for lunch and shopping with her. I am grateful she likes to spend time with me and we still connect.

But I am worried on the day after her birthday. Because though we still connect this is what mattered most on her birthday.

​This instagram post mattered most to her. She created a picture inspired by Pinterest and she posted it. Then she waited anxiously to see who would comment, how many likes she would get. The virtual likes mean so much. How is this virtual world impacting our ability to connect in meaningful ways?

There are many studies that confirm the addictive nature of our smart phones and social media. I am sure many of us experience the addictive nature of our smart phone. I personally have to work hard to put my phone away to be present. We work on our phones, we get our news on our phones, we shop on our phones. It is hard to put them down and be present.

I don’t know what the long term impact of social media will be on our ability to connect. There are plenty of psychologists studying it. What I do know is our smart phones and social media aren’t going anywhere. All we can do is try to find balance, be intentional in putting away our phones, and still create moments to connect in person – LIVE.