A cell phone: “a device that everyone owns and bitches about at the same time” and a symbol of American society’s decline of reality and experiences.“A device for communicating with others needlessly. Day in. Day out. Whenever. Wherever.”
There is a mentality that you should be able to reach someone at all times- anytime of day, anywhere they are. If they are unable to pick up their phone (because they are possibly sitting in class, watching a movie or attending a religious service), they will surely be able to respond via text messaging. If you are supposed to meet someone for dinner at 7:00, you can easily call her at 7:01 to inquire why she is late. If you discover that she is already there, you can stay on the phone with her until you spot her.
“A number you should NEVER EVER give to your boss.”
Most Americans will take their cell phones on vacation with them. They will be available to family, friends, and co-workers to discuss any given stress that was supposed to have been left at home. Maybe Americans should not give this number to their boss but some bosses require that you submit your cell number to them. Some bosses supply their employees with a “work cell phone” so that they can reach them when necessary.
“Stupid little thing that some nerd made to simplify life and destroy it”
It sucks that your boss can get in contact with you at all times but it’s awesome that your friends can. Now, if one of your friends isn’t present during a dinner date, shopping trip or doctor appointment, you can always have them there on the line. It might take away from the actual experience you are having with someone else but chances are they are on their phone too.
“Something that way too many 12 year olds have. Something that is nice to have but is not a necessity for everyday life.”
Please, explain to a 7th grader that a cell phone is not a necessity. Like many other material objects we consume, our cell phones represent status. Cell phones have evolved to include cameras, text messaging, and Internet access. There are phones available in different styles and colors. There is no doubt the style and functions of your phone say something about who you are as a person. How embarrassing it must be for a teenager to give out her home phone number.
“A leash or locating device”
I have been without a cell phone for over a week now. I have all intentions of getting a new one- soon. “It sucks not being about to get a hold of you,” my friends say. Really, because the last time I checked, you live on the floor below me; I see you in class on Monday, Wednesday and Friday; you can e-mail me; and if you leave me a message on my room phone, I promise I’ll get back to you.
4 comments:
Katie, I loved this! You did such a great job and everything you said is the truth. The funny thing is, you're totally cool without your phone, yet I know people who would collapse without theirs. I guess as much of a necessity it has become; cell phones can be insanely annoying. Good job!
Oh and P.S. I totally agree, there is no reason for 12 year olds to have cell phones!
I agree with some aspects of your essay and disagree with some. I hate it how people are always on their phone. There certainly is a time and place or everything and I think people lose track of that.
However, under certain situations it may make sense for a 12 year old to have a cell phone. Say their parents are divorced and one parent may supply their child with one so they can always be in touch, given maybe its rocky situation. I mean there are always reason for some things.
Given yes I understand where you are coming from and most of them just want them to be "cool."
Last week a group of friends and I went off to a resteraunt together, but we got seperated. I wasn't sure which resteraunt we were going to, and everyone in the other car had left their phones at home. It may be the single most frustrating car ride I have ever had. As annoying as cell phones have become, with bad quality ringtones and constant interruptions in class, I really can't imagine life without my cellphone.
Chalk another one up to 12 year olds not needing cell phones, your analysis of this whole situation was right on. Why should a 12 year old need a cell phone, you see them in the morning get on the bus, from that point until they get home in the afternoon, they are under the care and responsibility of a paid school official. Then you have that shady 2 minutes it takes for them to get from the bus stop to the house, where almost everyone still has a land line. 12 years olds shouldn't be out driving around with their friends so why should they need a mobile phone. If they go over a friends house they have a phone there, which has a number, and if they go out someone a mom or dad is taking them enough said. Your analysis on this was GREAT!
Post a Comment