Using technology in a positive way
I-phones. Laptops. I-pads. Email. Social media. Living in the 21st century, our world revolves around technology. It seems like we can’t go an hour without checking our cell phones or logging on to some type of social media site, like Facebook or Twitter. As teenagers and young adults, we are plugged into society through these sources and rely on constant communication to stay up to date with our friends, family, and favorite celebrity. The Anthony Muñoz Foundation used this idea when we decided that the theme for our 2013 Youth Leadership Seminar was to be Plugged In. At the seminar, we will explore how leaders are using technology to empower others and give back to their communities. Check out Adam’s post from last week to learn more about this event happening on October 9th.
What does the title of this post mean then when I say “Plugged Into the Right Sources?” The need for people to constantly be moving and on the go with their SmartPhones and checking their Facebook (and Twitter and Instagram and Pinterest) every chance they get, helps to emphasize that as a culture, we need to slow down. We need to learn to appreciate life as it comes at us and the relationships that can exist in person, and not just those in cyberspace. We don’t need to unplug from all forms of technology and communication, but must use this technology and future technology to do good in the world and help empower others to be leaders, even if they live across the globe. Technology gives us the power to positively influence and inspire others, but only if we use it in that way.
Instead of replying to emails or Facebook messages right as they are sent directly to our phones, we must decide when we want to respond to someone and not be constantly relying on these new devices for trivial matters. By taking the opportunity to have the final say and by not being addicted to technology and constantly in communication with other people, we will gain a better appreciation for our own life and the responsibilities that we have to others. We will learn more about our own abilities and how we can make a difference in the world.
At YLS, we’ll be encouraging students not to unplug directly, but rather to get plugged in to their school, community, and city. Technology can be used in many positive ways to help leaders in our community achieve their dreams. If we take the time to teach and explain technology to the incoming generations, it will inevitably show that technology can be used to help people. For example, organizations like The Birthday Project work to create a better world by spreading the message of kindness through their use of technology.
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Becky Griesmer
Impact Intern
#PluggedIn2013
Check out the blog where the pictures came from!