Dear Editor,
The profound detachment of Yidden from the reality around them due to their fixation on their phones and WhatsApp statuses is a churban.
It seems as though our attention – the frum world’s attention – has been hijacked by a relentless stream of notifications and status updates. It is not uncommon to observe people walking in shul, or at chasunos, or in the supermarket with their eyes glued to their screens, oblivious to what’s around them, or individuals engrossed in conversations with their devices while real-life conversations fade into the background. Our ability to be present and engage with the world is being compromised by the “allure” of the shtus-filled digital realm. It’s a chaval.
Human connection, genuine face-to-face interactions, and the like are gone.
Simchas have become opportunities to take selfies and then post them on status for the world. Gone is a low-key simcha without having to tell people where you went last night.
The excessive connection to smartphones and the constant desire to update WhatsApp statuses have created a sense of detachment and, as we often forget to savor the moment itself.
Let us encourage a collective awakening, urging individuals to look up from their screens and reengage with the world. We can start by setting aside designated “tech-free” hours during the day, wherein we consciously detach ourselves from our devices and immerse ourselves fully in our surroundings. Whether it’s taking a walk without our phones, having heartfelt conversations with our spouse and children, or simply observing the world around us with renewed curiosity, these small steps can make a significant difference.
Our excessive attachment to our phones and WhatsApp statuses is causing a churban to our lives – and we don’t even realize it.
Yours sincerely,
Disconnected