Cell Phone Etiquette

When the issue of “cell phone etiquette” is brought up, the first impulse is to quote the obvious, like “don’t drive and talk on your phone”, or obvious breaches of decorum like “put your phone on vibrate when in Church” etc. I have a problem with when, where – and how much cell phones are used. In my world, cell phones are irritating nuisances rather than conveniences.

Theoretically, one would assume that the proliferation of cell phones would bring increase the level of communication between family members, but the flip side to that “convenience” is that it also has the potential to decrease inter-family communications. In today’s fast paced world, families just don’t spend enough time together. It is the exception, not the rule that the average American family sits down around the family dinner table ala “Leave it to Beaver”. Face to face talk time between family members is rare, and consequentially, one would think that when they are sitting down together – either at the dinner table or in the car, family members would agree to use the cell phone judiciously.

Judiciously? Sensibly, thoughtfully, prudently, wisely – get the picture? When a cell phone rings, it is the equivalent of someone knocking on a door. Would ANYONE answer a door without knowing who was on the other side? Even if you knew who was on the other side of the door, just because they are there – uninvited – are you obligated to let them in without taking into consideration the other person in the room (or car)? Keeping it in perspective, the person actually with you made an effort to be with you, while the person on the cell phone just lifted and depressed their finger seven times. That is some Herculean effort.

How many times have you waited in line at a cash register, and after 20 minutes you finally arrive at the front of the line - just in time for the phone next to the register to ring - and the store clerk answers the phone and say “may I help you”? Of course, you are saying to yourself that the clerk should have not answered the phone, or answered it and immediately put the caller indefinitely on hold.

A cell phone can be used to convey an important message, or it can be used for innocent chitchat. In my world, you can keep your chitchat with someone else - to yourself. When using a cell phone, be considerate to those around you and use your cell phone thoughtfully – your friends, family and/coworkers will appreciate it.

(To my 16 year old daughter, Molly - this was written with you in mind)
(PS - I love you!)