Outsmarted

Winter in Oklahoma

The place I stayed in Oklahoma did not have an internet connection. There was no ethernet plug, no modem connection, no wireless. Two wireless networks my laptop scanned were password protected. The only time I had connection was when I had breaks during work. It was like that for the three days I was there.

I felt I was disconnected from the world. I could not read online newspaper articles, google information, update my blogs, check friends on Facebook, and get emails continuously. I was not able to check online maps, so I found it very difficult to familiarize with streets and directions around the places I stayed and went. I felt I didn't know what was going on in the world. Instantly.

Black Angus cows; they are cute, aren't they?

I felt lonely and turned on teve to accompany me in the evening while making presentation slides. I think that is what internet - all communication technologies in general - does. It makes me weaker to fight loneliness. I cannot stand being alone. The internet becomes a close friend. It makes me feel I always have someone to talk to when around it and I crave it when it isn't around.

I sold my smartphone last year. It made me check emails, chats, Facebook status and comments everytime. It ruled me. It wasn't good. I remember that as I tell myself it is actually good to not have internet connection sometimes. It is true. I am more productive.

I learned also that I was better suited to using paper in most information recording and retrieval activities. I use a paper calendar, for example. I can scan quickly my weekly schedule without having to scroll a tiny screen. I can write down quickly with my hand what I plan to do. No need for a keyboard. I always think my cursive handwriting is neat anyway.