Cell Phones and Companionship

When I think about us Millennials and even on into Generation Z, the first thing I think of is technology. One of the main differences between these two generations and all there predecessors is the use of technology starting at a young age. This has not only impacted the attitudes of these generations, but also the skill set, careers and everyday life of its members.

I try to make meaning of many things in life and while at the hospital last October I felt like I made a breakthrough in understanding why I, if not others of my cohort, fixate so much on, well...my cellphone.

Written October 26, 2016 while at Rady's Children's Hospital:

"When I woke up this morning, all I could think about was the flashing light on my phone. Notifications! It may seem petty and superficial to be worried about how many texts and snap chats I have, but in reality this has been a big concern for me, ever since I was hospitalized. As I thought harder about what this was about, I realized a deeper meaning to this concern. One of my basic desires in life, is the desire to be loved. I feel like my family loves me but that is about it. I have many friends, but in the past they seem to not meet my expectations in times of need. I yearn for someone to ask me if I'm okay. I crave the knowledge that someone, besides my family, is scared for me or concerned for my well being. It is not about attention, but about knowing that others know that I am not always okay. By thinking through this, I also realized an error on my end. My communication has been very poor in the past. I expect my friends to be there for me, to know what to say. I expect them to reach out and lift me up when I am down. But all the while, I don't ask for comfort and don't show my weakness. I simply expect them to know. As I move forward, I am determined to work on my end of the deal. Asking for love, starting conversations, and opening up to showing my vulnerability. I thank all those who send those notifications, those little surprise gifts, but I also know I need to send off some more of my own messages."

The big take away from that realization, is technology allows us to get our needs met. I know I discussed a lot about my personal friendships and growth, but I think the concept is universal. We all depend so much on the validation and support of others. And through the innovation of Smart Phones and social media, we have created a new way to get our need of being loved met. I talked extensively about my relationships, but never once did I mention doing things face to face. These new technologies have transformed the way we view and interact with others and have simplified the process of instant gratification and validation. Whether we await the reply from a message or email, or count the likes on our pictures and posts, we are all seeking love and attention. A love and attention we have the privilege of so instantly receiving.