The other day having a coffee a group of college students walked in and took a seat, without a word they took their phones out and scrolled for a few minutes. Then they started chatting; it was as if the phone was protection, used to fuel the conversation, when it got going the phones went down for a few minutes, then it was back to the phones.

This pattern seemed to continue on repeat.

Technology is amazing, but for many, it’s the screen they hide behind.

Have we got so afraid of who we are that we need facebook, snapchat and other apps to fuel our conversations?

It got me questioning what are we searching for in all these apps? Is it meaning, is it approval, is it acceptance?

For me, life is about connecting with people; it’s about listening, it’s about helping each other.

We all crave attention we all want to be accepted by others, so much so that sometimes we can forget the only relationship that matters. Our relationship with God.

The problem with our spiritual connection is, it’s subtle. So subtle that many take it for granted. Plus it takes relaxation, calmness and peace and when do we have time for that?

I have nothing against technology; only for it I would not be talking to you today, but it’s so important that we take time to switch it off.

When I started to do this, I found myself feeling very sleepy and often fell asleep. Smartphones laptops and tv continuously stimulates the mind; it’s unable to rest. Over weeks and months, it can wear you down.

When you don’t give your mind a rest, all the tension and stress builds up, which can lead to illness and pain.

If you feel overwhelmed at this time, I highly recommend trying the following. Take time today, whatever you can spare and close your eyes.

Feel the world around you, the noises, the sensations in your body, feel Gods presence and know that you are loved, and accepted.

Be still with no distractions. It could be in the form of prayer, a walk in nature, or a lay down on your bed.

When you give yourself this time stress, and tension will subside, you will see problems and difficulties from a new perspective.

Done regularly you will see significant changes in your life.

Take-a-Break

I have a no phones rule when I meet a friend for coffee or lunch. One to one meetings gives others an opportunity to open up to you with anything that might be troubling or worrying them. Continually checking notifications can come across that you’re not interested in what a friend is saying, and this is not an impression I want to give.

Remove the screens and have more profound connections.

Thanks for reading.
Rev J Martin