Living iPODless in an iPOD World

We've come full circle... to presence!

So we've been reading about text messaging and mobile phones and how lots of text-message crazy teens have no problem thinking that the people they're messaging miles away are, well, THERE. Texting has become so ubiquitous that the people they're reaching almost become ubiquitous. Here, therefore, is my sentimental regret of this transition that might be coming our way soon...

A couple summers ago I ran a tiny little independent coffee kiosk in the ER of a hospital. I doubt I'll ever get such a beneficial job, but nonetheless, I was all alone and constantly bored. Frequently, one of my best friends from home would text me by his instant messenger... from China (I was in the suburbs of Washington, D.C.). The most frequent topic of conversation was "i'm bored". I enjoyed the sentiment that went with overseas texting and the kind greetings of a friend while he knew I was bored on the job, and I laughed like he was there, but he most certainly wasn't...
When he returned later that summer, he would frequently call and we'd chit chat on the phone as my cappuchinos frothed over my then-raw-with-burns hands. One day, however, his voice began to echo. Confused with my phone and by a background flash of light, I turned around to see him and my other friends surprising me with a lovely digicam photo of the experience.

For some reason, this all stuck with me. I communicated with... let's call him "Phop"... through text messaging, instant messaging, cell phones, digital photos, and face-to-face communication. And I've gotta say, although nothing beats face-to-face anyday, after all those ways of communicating, I truly appreciated it even more. (The best part? I was on the night shift- 3 am?!?!)

Comments

Posted by: Britt
Posted on: December 1, 2005 12:46 PM

That is so funny. I have never got into the text messaging thing. I guess I am just waiting for it to become free and then maybe we will see. I definitely understand though. Its as if someone is within your grasp and yet they are thousands of miles away. Where will communication go from here? Who knows?

Posted by: Katie Riley
Posted on: December 2, 2005 02:34 AM

that's a great story.. isnt it great when something so little can make you so happy.. just a simple little text from someone you care about during a sucky day can make all the difference..

Posted by: Neil Ursic
Posted on: December 3, 2005 05:10 PM

Awesome story. Check out my blog on communicating with my friends in Paris and Shanghai.

Posted by: Maria Yelich
Posted on: December 4, 2005 04:21 PM

That was a funny story. I love being able to communicate with people internationally with such ease. I remember how difficult it was back when I was kid, before IM had become so popular.