Connectivity

Like almost everyone I know, I have been seduced by social networks. I relish having reconnected with friends who, otherwise, I may never have known the whereabouts or goings on of. The simplicity of keeping everyone posted on my life is quite gratifying and likewise, the ability to watch everyone, and their babies, dogs, newts, you name it grow both physically and emotionally is priceless. However, my thirst for connectivity within my great bounty of "friends" is never truly quenched. For all of the potential it holds, the demands of the real world reduce my exchange with these fantastic friends I have to amusing one liners.

I recently read an interesting article which thoughtfully analyzes the world of tweets and pokes. It is one growing in complexity, and often I ask myself why I think I need it in my life. Why does it feel good to read about little league games and flossing habits? What compels us to throw out bits of our lives for a network to chew on? Why do we continue to climb into a world so far away from the one we are obsessed with preserving? My family and I recently dined with two fantastic friends. Our senses were saturated with great conversation, fresh air and incredible flavors from their garden. It was hands down, real connectivity.

There are certain people who I regret having so much distance with. It's the trouble with packing up all worldly possessions and searching out far off adventures. One can never realize how much friends and family will be missed, even though the distance is lessened by the ability to post daily moods with silly face icons. However, if not for our Costa Rican adventure, we would have missed out on connecting with dozens of new friends from all over the world. I am happy to have the tentacles of technology keep me in touch with so many people, but I do not forget to make the most of the real time with the ones right around me.