Cell phones have become a part of our lives. We are no longer surprised to see people walking, eating and driving all while using their cell phones. The smart phones keep us connected to the Internet, email, family and news. I am even writing this post while using a smart phone. They are great inventions but they have a place and a time.
We've all seen those funny videos of people walking with their cell phone and tripping or falling. I've also seen people going through life looking down at their phone while they are out and about. I've seen whole families go out to eat together but every one of them is sitting at the table occupied with their individual cell phones. Not only is that behavior rude and self absorbed, it is dangerous.
Which brings me to my point. For safety's sake, if for no other reason, it is important to know what is going on around you. If you are distracted by your phone then you miss the little details in life. Most of the time those details may be minor but other times it can be life or death.
If you're using your phone when you are driving then you probably wouldn't notice someone following you and you can't possibly be giving your full attention to driving safely. If you get out of your car while on the phone then you might not see if someone is coming towards you or behind you while you're walking. When out shopping or eating or even going to the mailbox there are always potential dangers and people who mean harm to others. They might want to rob you or someone else. They might mean to kidnap you or a child. They might be coming in to rob a store or other establishment where you and others are feeling safe and secure.
Hopefully, if you are out eating, someone like ME will be there at the next table. Or if you are in the parking lot oblivious to the world then somebody like me will be there too. You see, I don't get so involved with anything without looking at the people around me to see what they are doing. I look for odd behavior and potential dangers. If you're absorbed in your phone then you miss those potential dangers so you and others are potential victims.
Its called "situational awareness" and its something you need to learn. As a prepper you HAVE to be ready for all dangers. You can't possibly know what's going on around you, with all its dangers, if you are fixed on your cell phone. You absolutely have to be a people watcher to be aware of your surroundings.
While I understand the good things a cell phone can bring to our day, I also see it as a distraction. If I see it then you better believe that other people with criminal minds see it too. So when you go out (or into) your house or car or building turn the cell phone off. Let it be something that you control rather then something that controls you. Remove other distractions as well because its not just cell phones that occupy us. Become a people watcher. Train yourself to be aware of what goes on around you and others. Its your life. Are you prepared to lose it because you couldn't wait to check your inbox?
Southern Wood Elf