Here is a question for the individual engulfed in their computer.
Do I enjoy my computer time more than family time? Let me be clear on the purpose of this question.
In this day and age of computers and their astounding ability to run or ruin our lives, I have found that the draw to the digital life has detrimentally affected the family structure.
As a former Principal, I was privy to a lot of family situations that were brought to school and became issues I had to address.
It was nothing I asked for, it simply landed on my desk.
Nonetheless, it is seen all over the news and in articles of how children and adults are so engrossed in computer games, Internet chat, social sites, and other forms of distractions due to the impact of the digital age.
So, whose fault is it that so many problems exist from this influence? The programmers, industry experts, marketers, or the consumer are all proponents of entertainment through computers and related technology.
But, does this make them proponents of family dysfunction? No, of course not.
It would be absurd to blame-shift the demise of families upon this one factor.
The people involved in the development of computer programs and their various uses do not set out to destroy families or to interfere intentionally with the healthy environment desperately needed in millions of homes.
In fact, there are a lot of uses of this technology designed to strengthen the family unit through online experiences.
What has happened, in part, is that a weakness of mind and character has been exposed.
Many individuals are not capable of handling the onslaught of games, movies, and social media.
The excessive use has caused sleep deprivation, inactivity resulting in weight gain and other serious health issues, and depression.
It is easier for some to sit at a computer screen and escape the realities of life via a virtual world that has endless opportunities instead of facing the reality of their existence.
Chatting with people they will likely never meet and being allowed to say whatever they want about whomever they please has a certain appeal.
This has done so much damage to the lives of parents and children.
Some how the chance to share very personal and private information with complete strangers is addicting and entices the persistence of those involved.
Online social sites are just as effective at perpetrating the demise of emotions and family structures.
None of this is intended as a use of the tools for social media.
A common use for the more positive aspect of this Internet phenomenon is to find family and friends who were lost over time due to various circumstances.
The happiness and joy felt by those who make such discoveries can be heart-warming and bring an end to the drought of contact with loved ones.
Unfortunately, many parents have lost touch with reality and left their spouse and even their children, at times, over the inappropriate use of the computer technology.
Online video chats or other forms of video media have availed the pervasive and shocking actions of some parents and children to share inappropriate moments.
These times have resulted in unrealistic expectations on one's behalf to think that the grass was greener in the other pasture.
How sad and pathetic all of this is; and, for what? The chance to explore an inhibition that has been let loose for a season of exploration and discovery to do nothing more than rip a family's life apart.
By allowing their emotions to run without restraint and using self-control or self-discipline as their guard, they have destroyed the most precious entity in the world, the family.
If you or someone you know has fallen into such a terrible, destructive vacuum of despair as this digital world, take heart in knowing there is a way back and a way to save the family from further strife.
Reduce the amount of time using the Internet and the computer games.
Spend more time laughing, eating, playing with family members and learn to love them for who they are and cherish the moments as they happen.
Once the moment is gone, there is no way to recover what was lost; only a way of preparing when another opportunity arrives.
There is an appropriateness to the use of technology.
It has tremendous positive attributes, that when used properly, are incredibly productive and beneficial.
So many have experienced tremendous time together through shared time together utilizing computers to enhance the entire family concept and how it can create unforgettable memories.
Discover these uses and apply them in a manner such that they do not overcome you or the time that could be spent with a spouse, your children, or both.
Love your family by letting them have more of your time.
You will be so much happier in life and in love.