Net loss

Many new technologies have been invented in recent times to make our lives easier. They are getting advanced day by day. Gadgets like iPads, iPhones, iPods, Tablet PCs and smartphones can be seen in many people’s hands, irrespective of their age. These technologies have become very popular all over the world indeed. It is nice to use and it also gives a smart look.

It is useful in many ways like we can connect to the Internet anytime, anywhere and communicate with many people at a time.

Of late, I have realised that it affects relationships too.

Many times it happens that people get so engrossed in the technology that they do not realise what is going on in their surroundings.

These technologies play the same role that TV used to play. Earlier, when people used to visit their relatives or friends, it was like television shows were dictating terms. Just hi, hello and everyone used to start watching the show. Only during the two-minute break, they would talk something.

Now these gadgets are performing the same task. People talk to each other only while waiting for replies to their messages whether using BBM, or WhatsApp, Tango or Skype. Their conversation breaks as soon as they hear the beeps on their phones.

Worst is when such people join a gathering. They get so engrossed that they do not even realise what is being discussed, but they would jump into the middle of the conversation and make a statement without listening carefully to the discussion. Result? They get embarrassed.

Sometimes, even on the dining table, people get so much occupied with their gadgets that they don’t enjoy the tasty food. Imagine the scenario when the hostess asks the guest’s response to the food who couldn’t even recall what he ate a while ago.

Once I saw a small boy waiting impatiently for his father. I was pleased that he loved his father so much. But I got surprised when the boy took the mobile phone of his father as soon as he arrived and sat in a corner.

I realised that his love for the gadget was stronger than his love for his father.

Published in The Gulf Today on November 2, 2013)