Can I Have Your Attention Please?

Does anyone really ever have your full attention anymore? If I'm honest, I am rarely 100% involved in anything. I'm working on it but it's not easy! Some of you reading this are actually skimming through it and I'm ok with that. I get it.

We certainly live in an ADD world. It seems like everybody’s got Attention Deficit Disorder (some diagnosed by a doctor, some not yet diagnosed, but you know who I'm talking about) Our technology has left us constantly distracted which causes so many of us to no longer pay attention to the people around them.

How many people are sitting looking at their phone and texting when you enter a restaurant, your job, or even your home? Everyone's heads are always down, engrossed in these devices. (If you are currently with your head down reading this, please, at least, finish this blog.)

Several months ago, my wife and 2 children were driving when someone out of nowhere ran their car into us on the driver's side. The person would end up taking off. We were shocked. I never even thought to look at their license plate assuming for sure, they would pull over. No, they got right on the highway. We called the police and they stated how often this happens. (get license plates next time you're hit) But that's not the part of the story I want to share. My son who was 12 at the time (has since had a birthday) was so focused on his device in the backseat (driver's side) that 5 minutes after we were hit, he asked why we stopped. That scares me. (please do not bring this up to my son as not to embarrass him, just making a point). 

We, as a family, are putting more 'guardrails' on technology. For one, when we have company, we are not engrossed in anything other than our company. I'll say this for me....when someone is looking at their phone when I'm speaking, I feel disrespected. I'm sure it's not intentional but it really is how I feel. I'm sure some of you agree. 

Philippians 2:4, Pauls say, "Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

Rick Warren says, "The greatest gift you can give somebody is your attention because your attention is your time.  You’re never going to get it back, and that’s why it is so precious when you give it."

Learning the lost art of paying attention is an act of love. It will transform your relationships and help you live a better and happier life.

In 30 years from now, we will all learn what restrictions we should have or should not have put on technology. 

Would you say you 'pay attention'? Are you a good listener? Has technology taken you away from others? We always love your feedback!