.png)
Class of 2016
As I sat in my hotel room in Shanghai with the television off, my phone locked, and my thumbs twiddling, I began to realize how large of a role technology plays in my everyday life. For the duration of our trip, our group did not have access to social media, Netflix, or even Google, as they are blocked by the Chinese government. After reading that sentence some Facebook or Netflix addicts may now believe that China is secretly a dystopia full of miserable, lost, and wandering empty souls who work nonstop to fuel their enormous economy. Although it may be hard to accept, that’s not entirely the case. (It is important for me to clarify that I am writing from an American’s perspective, and strongly believe that the Chinese people should have access to open communication with the world through social media, and believe that we, Americans, take this freedom for granted.)
As the days passed, I began to realize that television and social media had become “fillers” for actually living. Without these avenues for entertainment, I was forced to live in the world around me, rather than act as a spectator to others online or on TV. This caused me to endure many awkward interactions, including a stare down with a guy on the subway who remained stern-faced as I flashed a friendly smile. Although he jammed his elbow into my back as we exited, I somehow escaped unharmed. Personal interactions continued as I wandered around China without the ability to retreat to my phone. Finally, I realized I was living. I noticed how those around me behaved, picked up on their body language, and developed a better understanding of the nature of the world I was operating in. More importantly, I learned a lot about myself, including what interactions I tend to avoid, what makes me feel uncomfortable, and how I respond to different situations. By being forced to operate outside of my comfort zone, I became more comfortable interacting with others and taking the social initiative.
Although these realizations are extremely interesting to everyone reading this (I also practiced my sarcasm in China), I’m sure the millions of readers out there are wondering what I did in my free time. Aside from attending lectures, participating in discussions with Chinese students, climbing the Great Wall, and sightseeing, I actually had a lot of fun. I spent a generous amount of my time taking in the world around me and trying to understand Chinese culture. I became a connoisseur of dumplings and professionally drank yogurt through a straw on a nearly daily basis. Many afternoons were spent playing catch with Travis Wilson, which usually drew a large crowd, largely due to the fact that we’re extremely talented. My nights were spent playing cards or sleeping because that’s somewhat important.
Lastly, I’d like to clarify that I’m not advocating for each of us to eradicate social media and television from our lives entirely. I noticed that I had been using these as a way to avoid certain interactions that made me uncomfortable. I also realized that these distractions caused me to miss a lot of what was going on in the world around me. It is important to take a step back every now and then, but I grew so much more when I devoted my attention to those around me. I’ll admit, there were times where I needed to listen to music or read the headlines on Yahoo in order to take a break. However, if we find a way to scale back our usage of technology and commit that time to learning, or actually interacting with others, I believe we will become more “human” and actually live the life we have been given. Don’t take your time on Earth for granted by spectating or admiring the lives presented to you on social media or television. Live and love yours.
Connor Tracy, of Mayfield Ky., is a senior McConnell Scholar studying political science and philosophy.