Listen!

Listen “Listen, accept what I say; and the years of your life will be many.” (Proverbs 4 vs. 10) Driving to the trail to do my morning walk, a father and son were in the car behind me. The son was wearing a headset and probably listening or viewing something on his phone. The dad had his phone up to his ear. There are parents with their children in our apartment complex but on their screens. Screens and blue tooth are an integral part of society today; we are together but separated by technology. So, not to sound too much like an old fogey, I must admit that most of my communications today are with text, email, or social media. It is a great way to stay in touch with people and twenty-two family members. My question is, “Are we missing out on closeness…or increasing our contact? In the ancient 1950s, my folks and I rode together a lot, and they would not turn on the radio. It was our time to talk. Often, I was getting grilled, but it was my turn to ask and question once in a while. I especially liked to quiz my mom when we were riding to school. She was a teacher and always had the inside scoop. My dad was a talker; with him was my time to listen and learn. I do not remember much about what I learned, but we sure talked. There is a closeness to a personal conversation that we may be missing. I saw no conversation between the boy and his dad in my mirror. They were in different worlds. Sometimes my grandkids do that when I pick them up from school. Alone time is essential. Use it. With that said, the increased communication through technology makes keeping in touch easier. My conclusion for today is nothing. Times are changing, and people change with the times. We are parents charged with raising and mentoring the next generation. Prayerfully our love and Christian values will be passed on. Thought for Today: Today, let us be communicators with those around us. Let us share our love and faith and some hints on life. Prayer for Today: Today, we pray for future generations. We pray that the technology that makes their lives simpler enhances their understanding of Jesus and his grace.