Today, I gave a presentation to more than 30 high school seniors. They were glued to their phones. It was ridiculous on several fronts. I ended up threatening to stop my talk if they didn't put the phones down. Begrudgingly, they put them away. And after a long time speaking about music and my restaurant and job opportunities, I asked if they had questions. Unsurprisingly, they didn't have any. They just got back on their phones.
I apparently live in a city of zombie kids. I hope they don't eat me.
The saddest part of this day was feeling the boredom emanating off young people. The teens were completely devoid of wonder. And rude as hell. They saw no reason for human connection today. They would prefer to scroll than start a conversation. I felt sorry for the whole lot of them.
Reader, tomorrow is the election. No matter who wins, I'm more nervous about the apathy I saw today than the outcome of the election. This week, let's not forget to get to know each other--to talk to each other, to listen to each other, to find solutions with each other and to debate with each other--in the real world. Real life is happening. Opportunities for connection and kinship are out there...if we can get off our damn phones when that opportunity arises.
Sending big love to you. Here's a picture of a real world sunrise that I took. I hope to see you out there real soon. xo Em
