R U a phoneaholic?

“Hi, I’m Kathy. I’m a phoneaholic. I have been cellphone free for almost 6 months.” OK, I realize that the phoneaholics that are reading this are probably in the middle of an anxiety attack. Breathe deep, again, I’m sorry to be the one to tell you this but it IS possible to live in today’s world without a cell. Sometimes, it’s even preferable.
You might ask how did I come to such a conclusion? I’ll tell you. Firstly, we were saving money. I found out that most companies will let you put your phones on hold for several months. No service but also no bills. We did this. The first few weeks were difficult. We found ourselves reaching for our phones many times a day. But as is the case with all withdrawals, it grew easier and easier. We found ourselves liking the peace and quiet in the car, in the garden, while shopping. I found my meditation time again.
We also found quality couple time. During the aforementioned times, we talked to each other, not others. We found ourselves listening to each other instead of for the text alert. I’m beginning to think that turning off has added a whole new emotional intimacy to our lives. Instead of telling Mom and other friends about his day at work, my husband now tells me. That applies to me as well.
I am also wondering if “instant communication” leads to “instant” arguments, fights and breakups. We found that instead of being able to call each other when we are upset or aggravated- we have to wait until we see each other again. By then, we have forgotten about the problem or solved it ourselves. Peace reigns supreme!
We feel that of all the changes we’ve made in our lives recently, this one choice took us directly out of the fast lane. Not being available 24/7 has made a huge difference in our relationship as well as other relationships. Instead of a lot of meaningless short talks with people, we have real conversations in person or on our land line. We cherish our calls more.
Children actually have to think for themselves if they can’t call Mom and Dad every 15 minutes. They will manage to not kill each other, I promise. And you won’t know every little thing happening at home while you are away- isn’t that worth it?
Recently I was at a store. There was a woman whose phone just rang continuously. By the 4th call, she was perturbed and told her husband she couldn’t remember who she had already talked to. She said that she hated her phone!
I murmured that was the exact reason I didn’t have a phone anymore. This sparked a lively conversation with a nearby couple who had been thinking of doing the same thing and wanted details about what life after cellphones was like. I think more of us should do it! At least try it- you might like it. We do!
That’s the view from my side of street, what’s yours?