For someone whose line of work revolves around social media, I find it strange how people suddenly give up the power of connection in exchange for solitude. No man is an island, right? I often wonder how lonely can it get being far from the realms of trend and social issues. Then, this long-forgotten inquiry was finally put to answer yesterday.
We were already on our way home when I noticed that I was not bringing my phone with me. At first, I thought it was just a prank played by my colleagues, but when we began to separate ways and none of them returned the phone, I knew I was doomed. But it was too risky and taxing to go back and retrieve what I believe was left on my table. So, I suffered the noise of the jeepney passengers without my usual playlist humming me to sleep and endured a holiday without any connection to the cyber world.
My awful habit of procrastination was stirred that I ended up finishing a whole book in one sitting – one that I haven’t done in a long time. I was able to write three blog updates (including this one) and meticulously proofread a work order that has been long piled on the shelves. At night, I got the chance to watch “The Foreigner” and Asian Games with the family and, just like the old days, seriously discussed and critiqued the film!
It’s funny how a single carelessness prompted to these series of achievements. Had I went back to get my phone back, would any of these get accomplished? Would I even get the chance to write this? Nah. But what surprised me the most was the answer that I have been long waiting for. Now I understood how disconnecting allows more connection. More than silence and solitude, it enhances creativity and patience. Moreover, through absence, you will come to know those who deem you of utmost importance – they will extort all means to connect to you – in the most exhilarating, sometimes desperate, way possible. Truly, absence makes the heart go fonder. ‘Til then, I hope you also find time to bid a moment from your phones. Not to find yourself, but to see who or what finds you.
PS. Timeout with your soul searching please. Update nasa imo blog. I need more insights. HAHA.
Dakilanglaagan 