Could You Do Without?

March 24th...Do you think you're capable of staying off the computer for a full day? Since it's a Saturday, I know I can. I'm usually able to stay away from the computer on the weekends unless I've got work to finish up.

Recently, on the Today Show, they aired a segment, "Could You Do Without?" It featured the managing editor of Forbes magazine, Dennis Kneale. Let's just say, it wasn't pretty. You can absolutely see withdrawal sinking in...the bargaining, the rationalizing. I'm amazed at how ingrained cellphones and access to the internet and email have become in our culture. I'm just as guilty as the next person.

I guess the last time I've been completely without was in Idaho, last summer. It was pretty great, actually. I think the television was turned on only a few times, cell service was non-existent, and I think someone would have laughed at us if we'd asked about internet connections. I can go without my cell phone; I do on a regular basis (due to forgetfulness). It doesn't bother me, but it seems to bother the people that call expecting me to be answering their calls. At one of Mike McClure's acoustic shows, he mentioned in passing the ever-present cell phone. He pondered aloud why we felt the need to be forever connected, when just a few years ago, it was not commonplace. I'm not sure what the answer to that question is. I do know that I would never think about taking a roadtrip without my cell, and I would hate to be abandoned in an airport without my cell or ipod.

Here's the interview with Kneale from the Today Show: