Cell Phones Aren’t Just for Kids Anymore – Are We All Addicted?
Years, cell phone “addiction” was something we associated with teenagers and young adults. Heads down, thumbs flying, seemingly glued to their screens. But take a stroll through the Squares, and you’ll see that this behavior has moved well beyond the younger crowd. Our generation has embraced smartphones just as much—sometimes a little too much.
Whether it’s crossing the street while texting, missing the golf cart traffic coming around the corner, or holding a conversation on speakerphone in the middle of a busy restaurant, it’s clear that phones have become more than just a tool. They’ve become a constant companion. While convenient, they can also distract us from our surroundings and from simple courtesy.
Here’s another observation: how often do people really go back and watch the videos they take of the performers in the square? Sometimes it seems like half the audience is looking through a screen instead of enjoying the music live in the moment. Wouldn’t the memory be just as sweet—maybe even sweeter—without trying to record every second?
This brings up an interesting question: if you have a friend or family member who does this, would you feel comfortable asking them to practice better manners? It can feel awkward to speak up, but sometimes a gentle reminder—like suggesting they step aside for a private call, put the phone down while walking, or simply enjoy the performance without the constant recording—could help keep everyone safe and respectful.
Technology is here to stay, and so are our phones. The challenge is not whether we use them, but how we use them. A little awareness and courtesy can go a long way toward making life in our community more enjoyable for everyone. Should we ban the use in restaurants? I know I don’t want to hear your conversation – lol