Friday, February 16, 2007

Cell Phone Rant

I believe it is high time that cell phone etiquette be introduced into the state's public school curriculum. The availibility of the celluar mobile phone made a statospheric leap in the early 21st century due to lowered prices and attractive long distance plans. The leap was so rapid that our culture experienced and I believe is still experiencing cultural and technological lag when it comes to cell phone use. Fortunately more and more states are placing restrictions on the use of mobile phones while driving. But more etiquette instruction is needed...

1.) Cell phones should be turned completely off in the movie theater. Even when someone is not actually talking on the phone...the light enamating from the cell phone screen is an annoying distraction from the movie screen.
2.) Cell phones should never be used while driving.

3.) Cell phones should be turned off in restauraunts.

4.) Cell phones should be turned completely off in schools and churches.

5.) Make an attempt not to be gabbing on the phone while shopping at the grocery store. People on the phone do not pay attention and often hold up aisles or run into people. Stop in an out of the way place and make or take your call in a stationary fashion.

There are exceptions, of course, in all these cases. However most Americans have no idea how to use a cell phone appropriately. You do not have to be in constant contact with your friends and family while you're driving or shopping. Disconnect from the grid occassionally and enjoy some solitude. Heaven knows how people lived without cell phones prior to 1995.
photo: Jackson mimicing his mother on the phone...told you he's smart!