I go for a walk. The air is crisp, the sun warm on my face. A pair of cardinals dance in the trees. I see greens, yellows, and pinks. I stop and take a moment for gratitude: thank you for getting me through this long, hard winter. Deep breath. I welcome spring with open arms.
My neighborhood is a patchwork of blooming plant life. Easter lilies and cherry blossoms peek out from their hiding places. Each tree, shrub, and flower returning to us at its own pace. We can learn something from that, I think. A neighbor and their friendly golden retriever walks by. I smile and say hello.
While enjoying this abnormally warm March morning, I realize something that genuinely breaks my heart. How many moments like this have I missed because of my phone?
How many bird chirps?
How many butterflies?
How many easter lilies and cherry blossoms?
It’s most likely more than I’d like to admit. Shame and guilt washes over me. I suddenly feel so sad and angry for this world. These devices, the pings and constant stimulation, are pulling us away from the things that actually matter in life. From what we need to feel good. From connection. From presence. From solitude. From peace.
But then I remember we have a choice. It’s hard and it will take work, but we still have a choice. How incredible! We can choose to walk away from the digital noise and immerse ourselves in the life that’s happening right in front of us. We can take back our attention, our mental health, our ability to spend time on more meaningful tasks.
I am not perfect by any means, but I don’t think that’s the point. The point is in the recognizing and in the trying.
My goal for you this weekend: Take a walk without your phone (or keep it in your pocket for safety reasons) and tell me what you see.
Wishing you less time on your screen,
-Emily