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August 3, 2016

August 5, 2016 by Justin Deutsch

Dear Friends,

Technology is something that is constantly changing our lives, and there’s nothing like a trip to the wilderness of Maine and New England to help us see how such changes affect us day to day. Our family trip has opened our eyes to the joys and challenges of our dependence on technology.

It all started before we ever left the house, when we realized that we needed a small backpack for all of our charging devices, chords and headphones. Now, some would say, “Why not leave that stuff at home?” Well, it’s not that easy.

We depend on our phones to stay connected and to help us navigate the world through GPS (something we need when driving through unfamiliar terrain). And then of course, all of our watches need to be charged. Our kids may not need their devices day to day, but early in the morning, a quick electronic game can keep a hotel room calm.

Nature quickly proves that these devices and games are mere distractions from what matters most. On the craggy shoreline of Maine, we climbed the coast; we trapped lobsters; and we explored the glories of Acadia National Park. It was a true pleasure to see our boys wander into weedy, uninviting brush to pick wild blueberries. As we paddled across a solitary lake deep in the woods searching for Moose, the glorious quietude reminded us of the value of shutting out the noise of the world from time to time.

This trip has helped us remember that no technological game or device could ever match the joys of the moment when we take the time to explore the world in which we live. Of course, Simon and Aiden have taught us a lesson as well. It turns out that some of the rarest Pokemon can only be found in these remote corners of nature!

L’Shalom–Steve

Filed Under: All Rabbi's Messages, Weekly Reflections

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