A few years ago, I kind of decided to get out of the upgrade cycle of phones, computers, ski equipment, etc. If my skis still work, why do I need to upgrade? I mean, so my boots are 30 years old? They work! Besides have you seen the prices of new ski equipment? Wow!
Same for phones. My Cell phone was purchased about 3.5 years ago. It’s still working. But I also recently got an email from Verizon about a special upgrade offer. I can get the newest iPhone 13 mini for free. Okay, I do have to pay a $35 upgrade fee and the tax on the iPhone. So, it comes to a cool $100. But the phone is free, right?
I’ve actually been debating about going to one of these cell phones:
There just seems to be something really appealing about unplugging. No more beeps and whistles all through meals (for the record, we have a no phone zone at our house during meals). No more meeting interruptions with random social media bias (for the record, I don’t get on social media much, if at all).
I was reminded today, as my friend tagged me in a map itinerary, how easy it was to follow them as they drove closer and closer to us. I was reminded that my Apple Watch would no longer work because it “has” to be tied to an iPhone. I was reminded of all the seemingly minimal improvements that make us more and more want to keep our smart phones. Wonder what it was like when families actually talked instead of texted each other? Wonder what it was like when we actually used a phone as a phone? All of the phones above are trying to ditch the smart phone. However, with the cell companies trying to shut off the use of flip phones, and the so-called dumb phones, one of the phones above is dubbed the “wise phone.” It’s not smart. It’s not dumb. It’s wise…. I like it. They are actually marketing some of these at the kids. Take note parents, not a bad option.
I’m not a luddite when it comes to technology. I’m not anti-tech. In fact, I love tech. But I’m not sure I like that tech has become sort of an idol for us in this age. It’s become the all consuming issue. We have to upgrade to the newest phone every time one comes out. We need the newest smart watches. We need the newest TVs, skis, shoes, clothes, electronics, etc.
I wonder what it would be like if we just settled for a simpler life?
1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 (NIV)
11 and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, 12 so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.
1 Peter 4:3–5 (NIV)
3 For you have spent enough time in the past doing what pagans choose to do—… detestable idolatry. 4 They are surprised that you do not join them in their reckless, wild living, and they heap abuse on you. 5 But they will have to give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.
