My father, at the age of 86, said to me that he thought he would be far more adept at living life 100 years ago than he felt living in the 21st century. Even before dementia stole his mind, so much of life we know today was becoming beyond his understanding.
Something as simple as television had become technical, complicated by a series of remotes and channel options that require a course of instruction. Even I find it confusing and yearn for the simple ‘Off’ and ‘On’ buttons on old televisions. (OK - I don’t miss the tv of my childhood. My sisters and I had to take turns sitting behind it to press a reset button when it went on the fritz!)
It was unthinkable to imagine him using a computer.
I am like my father in many ways. I might best be described as a 'Luddite', preferring old ways to communicate instead of using technology exclusively. I crave the simplicity we knew before computers.
I admit blogging allows me to practice writing and, like everyone, I use my iPad and laptop to suit my needs. Our family stays in touch through messages that help us all feel a part of each other’s day. And how could I not be grateful for FaceTime during these months at home?
Beyond that I do not venture. Tweeting and FaceBook tempt me not at all. I have always doubted that anyone would find my activities of interest and I’m not pining to learn what others are up to. Those in my circle of family and friends I manage to keep up with through email, telephone calls and letters.
It’s this last option that is my true realm.
Running out of writing paper recently brought a sense of panic. How was I to stay in touch with friends? Letter writing is my ‘thing’.
Writing with a fountain pen releases my creativity and the words I write become a journal entry just for the person I’m writing to. I don’t expect letters in return. A letter allows me to let someone know I’m thinking of them.
Whatever manner we use to stay connected, any 'connecting' we do is a poor imitation of the real thing: sitting side by side with another. Enjoying a cup of tea and a belly laugh (or occasional cry) with a friend deepens relationships. Sleepovers with our family allow opportunities, after grandchildren are tucked in bed, to really learn about their lives and support and celebrate them.
When we are physically together with others, words spoken are given the space to be truly listened to, understood and appreciated.
Remember the “plays well with others” box on our elementary school report cards. Even then, our social interaction with classmates was recognized as essential to our wellbeing and was developed through our classroom play.
So looking forward to playing well with others once again!
