A Technological Disconnect?

So everybody's making a big deal about the numerical significance of today.  People are making wishes on Facebook, discussing how auspicious the day is for romance...I've even heard some Age of Aquarius references. Today, I too had semi-grandiose plans.  I had intended to attend TEDxPortof Spain, and to take a few photographs for this initiative, but both sets of plans were foiled - and yes, I'm blaming the man flu again.  But all the hoopla got me thinking.  

In an age (Aquarius or not) where we're so "connected" - at least technologically - is it possible that we're actually further apart from one another than ever?  I think of experts in the field of education that I've had the opportunity to meet with recently and I can't get their stories out of my mind.  Lonely children boasting about the fact that their parents buy them anything they want. (While some may call it bragging rights, I see it as a cry for help.)  Parents who regularly palm their chidlren off on grandparents/babysitters/aunts/uncles because their desire to fete is greater than their desire to stay home and actually spend time with their kids.  And just to be clear: these are not my opinions; they are trends that the educators and counsellors I've spoken with are very concerned about, because the children are paying the price.     

Socializing in this age of social media means you can find out, practically minute by minute, where the party is, who's going and...well, you get the idea.  It's voyeurism on steroids. Of course, social media can also be a pivotal force for change, positive action and productive discussion, but I'd suggest that as far as the Caribbean goes - after all, the number one Internet site in Trinidad and Tobago is Facebook - many users of social media don't get what this blog post puts so eloquently:

 Social media is not about me. It's about how much value I create for my followers, friends, and connections.  Of course, social media is many things to many different people, but I think in the arena of content creation, it's all about your users...

By the same token, perhaps many parents don't get that by being so connected - so technologically available - they're potentially losing touch with the little people who should be their priority.  Don't get me wrong: I value the conveniences that come with technology.  I can check email and build puzzles with my son at the same time; attend early morning virtual meetings while still in my PJs.  I'm even of the opinion that a child with access (albeit supervised) to technology is an empowered child.  But I take heed when my toddler tells me, straight-faced, "Mummy, put down the phone."  And I do, because what he's actually telling me is that he needs my 100% undivided attention.  And I happily give it to him - but not before looking at him and thinking, "How did you get to be so smart?"