Life in the Fast Lane

I embrace technology, to the extent I can afford and understand it.  And my understanding grows by leaps and bounds, as my pocketbook is lightened!!!  I use facebook, twitter, a cell phone with text messaging and SMS updates, and even used my cell phone instead of the computer to access the internet.

Today via satellite TV, I am witnessing what amounts to a coup d'état, brought about in no small way because of technology.  The Egyptian people have ousted their leader and are forcing radical change in their country, in no small part because they were able to use their cell phones, twitter and the internet to maintain communication and empower each other with the sheer number of protestors.  Just last night, it did not seem like a peaceful outcome was to be had.  But the world was watching, and any brutal crackdown of the protesors would have been immediately broadcast by thousands of cell phones.  What a difference a day makes.  Congratulations to those who are winning the fight for a more democratic country.  I just hope reality will meet expectations.  And dispite all the speed with which we can communicate world-wide, this transition will not happen overnight.

The pace of life in today's world has escalated exponentially over the past several decades.  I wonder how much the better we REALLY are, for all the advances?  Yes, I utilize many of them and would probably be lost without some.  But I am also less stressed and more centered, when I walk away from the 'pace' and find my own out in the garden, or walking through the woods.  I know I feel healthier after having been outside without ringing phones, beeping timers and e-mail notifications.  Stress is toxic, and the pace at which we feel compelled to move, can indeed be stressful.  So it is up to each of us to STOP, breathe slowly and deeply, and take time for ourselves away from the hustle and bustle.   I am trying to follow my own advice.... maybe that's why I have written it here.  As a reminder to self.... slow down, breathe, take in the beauty that surrounds me and appreciate it, internalize it. Step back from the techno-pace.

Just don't take away my digital camera.....