In a world where everyone is electronically connected pretty well 24/7 we fail miserably to connect with ourselves and the world around us. All this electronic communication via Facebook, Twitter, LInkedin , Texting etc, is great because we can gain knowledge quickly at our fingertips with computers and our smart phones. But, there needs to be a balance, electronic communication in a way isolates us to what may be right in front of us or under our feet. Often I’ve seen people engaged in talking with someone on their cell phone or texting while they are sitting with someone in front of them, a real person. There is no substitute for direct personal contact with those we care about and choose to spend our time with, that’s why when travelling with family or if you are getting away from it all maybe it is a good idea to leave the smart phone and laptop at home.
In order to get the full impact of travel we need to engage with those we are travelling with, the local people and the environment. Being present while travelling allows us to gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and philosophies, more understanding than we could ever gain by googling the subject. We also get to slow down and ponder our own existence and our place in the world. The world would be a better place if we just took off our shoes and socks and felt the earth under our feet, sat quietly with our thoughts, looked the person we are with directly in the eyes and listened with our hearts.
So when travelling the next time disconnect electronically and connect spiritually!
If you are interested in where I got the title from check out the song Communication by the Cardigans, the lyrics always get me thinking.
http://youtu.be/9ocmdyvVDhg
Denise Gushue – CTC
Denise.gushue@gmail.com
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