subject: The Necessity Of Cell Phone Manners [print this page] The introduction of modern technology has been a blessing and a curse. It has brought many wonderful appliances to make our life easier and connect to people in a way people never dreamed was possible. The cell phone has brought many benefits such as the ability to contact someone in the case of an emergency. Parents have the advantage of tracking their children. However, it also has its drawbacks.
Everywhere you look, people are conversing in the most public places where most can overhear a private conversation or student's texting in class or how many of us have been driven off the road only to see the other driver texting while they should be concentrating on the road? All of this has happened in the last five years or so. Back then, most of the population couldn't have afforded a cell phone and if you could, it didn't fit in the palm of your hand.
As technology becomes more utilized, we need to keep in mind how it may affect those around us. People using these devices have become unaware that their use may be considered rude. Consider waiting in a line and the person ahead of you is using a cell phone and the entire conversation can be heard. Then because the person doesn't get off the phone right away, they are now holding up the line. This is rude behavior and not very considerate of those around you.
Adults need to set the example for the children who are now using these devices at a very early age. Rules need to be established and adhered when the appropriate times to use a cell phone. Its not in school while texting underneath the desk, at the dinner table or anywhere when people are trying to concentrate. Teachers are now complaining that because students are using a abbreviated version of grammar to text it has affected their composition skills in school.
Manners and consideration of others is an important skill in anything we do. Common courtesy should be exercised no matter where you are or what you are doing. Cell phone usage is no exception. The next time the cell phone rings, be aware of your surroundings and if you think people may be bothered by the conversation, either take the call outside or tell the caller you will call them back.
