Disconnected

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Image: Sura Nualpradid / FreeDigitalPhotos.net
Sometimes I feel like I'm living disconnected in a connected world. We have access to much entertainment, information, education, and even socialization through just a click of a button in the on-line world. We are connected to anything and anyone in less then a second of time. 


But I find my thoughts throughout the day going something like this:

  • "Break time from school. Yes! I'm just going to take a second and check my Facebook page. Then I'll get that load of laundry started." Next thing I know 15 minutes has passed and I'm scrambling to get the kids back to work and, oops, the laundry gets forgotten.
  • The kids are busy working on seatwork. Papers need graded, but "I'm just going to take a second and check if my friend answered my message. Oh wow, look at all the responses to my post." Soon voices of children break into my world. I tell them just a moment so I can finish reading. Then I scramble to get my mind focused on what we're supposed to be doing next in school.
  • Lunch is on the table. I'm waiting for my husband to get home. Better check my e-mail. "Oh, there's one I'd better answer." Forgot to stir the chili keeping warm on the stove. Kinda scorched it to the bottom of the pan. Guess maybe I should have left the e-mail for later.

It's like the on-line world is a magnet. It consumes my thoughts and every free minute. I'm always wondering who might have written me. I'm wondering what friend posted new pictures of their baby. I even wonder how many "page views" my blog has had for the day.

I read an article last week entitled, "Does Life Online Give You 'Popcorn Brain'?" After reading it I thought I might need to curtail my on-line activity. My brain is constantly jumping from things I need to focus on to "when can I get on the computer next." But I made no clear commitment other then, "I'll try to do better."

The very next morning during our morning family devotions my husband read this verse, "The end of all things is near. Therefore be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray." (I Pet. 4:7) I felt instant conviction. I thought, "Lord, it's fine to step on my toes, but did you really have to stomp on my foot like that!" 

Notice the end of the verse, "...so you can pray." I'd like to be able to say, "It will influence my ability to pray if I don't get a handle on this." However, if I'm completely honest it is already affecting my ability to pray. My lack of self-control is cluttering my mind and making it unfocused so that I'm anything but clear-minded. As a result it is affecting my relationship with God not to mention my family as well.

Pray for me as I set up new boundaries in my life. Prayer is the pathway of communication with God. I want to live connected with my Savior. All the connection with the rest of the world will matter little if I lose my connection with him. 

Will you join me in my effort to be clear-minded and self-controlled?

Linking up with:


Comments

  1. Ryan and EmilyJanuary 15, 2012 at 9:26 PM

    I found your blog through Raising Arrows. Wonderful post! This is something I completely struggle with and your post was super encouraging. I've been challenging myself with praying every time I get the urge to hit that facebook button on my phone. Oh it's so sneaky! :) Thanks again!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. NatashaJanuary 16, 2012 at 2:20 PM

      Saying a prayer for you, too. I've had such a hard time today waiting for my designated time to get on the computer today. :) Makes me feel better to know I'm not alone though.

      Delete
  2. MelissaJanuary 15, 2012 at 9:32 PM

    I've been thinking about this too! Several times now, i have done a "facebook fast" and given it up cold turkey for 40 days. It resets my limits and habits, but somehow it always sneaks back up on me again. I have mentioned how it feels like going through withdrawal, feeling jittery and nervous because I am so used to checking facebook and email. And as much as I enjoy my own blog writing, it does sometimes take away from my family and homeschooling time. I know for sure my time with the Lord is suffering too.
    A reminder of what's important is good, thanks for the great post!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. NatashaJanuary 16, 2012 at 2:22 PM

      I've thought about the "facebook fast". I might have to do that if the boundaries I'm setting do not work for me. :)

      Delete
  3. SuannaJanuary 16, 2012 at 4:35 PM

    I know how the computer can suck the life out of my days. I try to have 1-2 designated times that I check e-mail/read blogs. Then my goal is to complete anything I need to do before I am allowed to get on for more. Some days are better than others. Sometimes I set a timer, just so I know when I have been on long enough.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. NatashaJanuary 16, 2012 at 7:27 PM

      A timer is a good idea. Time goes by so quickly when I'm on the computer.

      Delete
  4. UnknownJanuary 19, 2012 at 9:34 PM

    lady- you are speaking the truth for sure! :) I have time limits too- need to be better about it - my first mission is to my husband and children

    ReplyDelete
  5. Kasey @ Walking RedeemedJanuary 22, 2012 at 10:25 PM

    I definitely need to disconnect more often! Even when I am successful at exercising self-control, my mind is often occupied with what I will do or write about when I get back to the computer! There has to be boundaries!

    Thank you so much for linking up last week! Please know I'd love to have you join us again tomorrow! Blessings, Kasey

    ReplyDelete

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