I recently had the most enlightening experience while waiting on some pizzas for the kids. My niece and I sat down beside an elderly woman who was also waiting for her food. After a quick “hello”, I immediately pull out my phone and start scrolling through images on Facebook, something I find myself doing every time I have to wait for anything. My lovely niece, who accidentally left her phone in my car, asked me a few questions to pass the time. When I didn’t put the phone down, she simply peered over my shoulder to watch my scrolling session.
Suddenly, the door opens, and it makes a horrible, squeaky noise that startles us. The three of us laugh, which acts as an ice-breaker for the lady. She strikes up a lovely conversation that we continue until our names are called. It wasn’t until we went our separate ways that I realized the importance of that encounter. This woman wasn’t preoccupied with some device. In fact, I don’t know if she even has a cell phone. She was more interested in the things around her and meeting someone new. Because of this, we both walked away with smiles on our faces.
This isn’t a story about how addicted our society has become to our devices, even though that much is true. I was simply fascinated by the fact that she WASN’T. I don’t even think she even considered the option. It made me wonder how many senior citizens feel isolated by modern technology? How many of them feel lonely while in a crowded room because there’s no one to talk to? Or feel ignored by family/friends because they’re not really present?
As an insurance agent, it’s my job to connect with people. However, I know that I’m guilty of paying more attention to my phone than my family at times. (I’m sure my grandmother will wholeheartedly agree with this!) Everyone is not accustomed to this. There are people in our lives who still enjoy the human experience. Instead of dismissing them as outdated, we should take the time to learn from them. Who knows? You might actually enjoy yourself!
Written by: Colette Allen, Managing Owner of Palmetto Strong
