The Last Straw

If you have read my book or know me personally, you know that I am concerned about the pervasive impact technology can have on social and family relationships. You also know that I am technologically savvy, support the power of technology, use it to enhance my life, and believe if used properly, it can transform “Generation Text” into “Generation Best.” But, many of you are probably like me and enjoy a break from the screens that have become so embedded in our lives.

On that note, I have spent the past week more than two miles above sea level, in a winter wonderland called Vail. My kids put ski’s on before they were able to tie their own shoes. Now, they are adults and yearly ski trips to Colorado have been my secret plan to add to our quality family time together, even though they no longer live with my wife and I. And it has worked. When I announce a trip planned-all three drop what they are doing and carve time out of their schedule.

But, as the saying goes, “the only constant is change.” And I noticed a big change in this trip. Our yearly escape to the small town rustic feeling of the Rockies used to include a daily routine of waking up early, skiing all day, having dinner together, and conking out early due to exhaustion. This year, technology invaded our “escape” despite all our efforts to leave it home. My oldest son who runs Ignighter, an Internet based company, announced that he could not avoid scheduling several important Skype video conferences, but he managed to schedule them during our down time between skiing and dinner. Thanks to an eco-friendly strategically placed cell tower on the mountain, instead of walkie talkies, we each had our cell phones in the event we became separated while skiing. Thankfully, no cell calls were made, except to each other, but boyfriends and girlfriends were texted at less family conspicuous times, and email was checked whenever we stopped for a break or lunch. They tried to limit cell and computer use as much as possible, but apparently it is impossible to eliminate it if you need to keep in touch with work or friends. And it wasn’t only my kids. Last year it was rare to see a cell phone on the slopes. This year, I saw at least one being used at the base of every lift.

That was it. The last straw. The last bastion of our pure family vacation is now tainted by the invasion of mobile phone and Internet technology. Now, don’t get me wrong. It was still great family time and my kids’ clear attempt at minimizing the use of technology was gratifying because it meant they also cherished the memory we made. It’s just that I have to continually get used to the idea that we rely on it more and more.

And by the way, here I am writing this blog on our last night, in a condo in Vail, trying to get a head start on my work week.

Guilty as charged.