Mediashift writer Mark Glaser writes about his experimentations with taking a Media Sabbath.
So, being that I am Jewish — though not very religious — I decided to shut down the computer each Friday night at sunset until Saturday at sunset, the traditional time of the Jewish Sabbath.
To which I respond, OF COURSE YOU’RE JEWISH, MARK. YOU’RE IN THE MEDIA. But also, what a weakling. And it turns out he’s not even having a day off from technology at all:
I make exceptions when I need to get directions or check for a personal email. I still use my cell phone but try to limit it to personal calls only.
I sometimes have a day off from eggs, but I make exceptions when I fancy a personal omelet. I also, occasionally, have a day off from ritual sacrifices. But I make an exception when I come across a personal rabbit that’s dying to have its neck slit.
The fact is, being plugged in is a way of life these days. It just depends on what you’re plugged into. If you find it demanding, Mark, perhaps you’re not living the way you really want. Perhaps, indeed, you’re writing for some boring-ass PBS website nobody reads. Change jobs is my advice. You’ll feel better.
You got me. I am trying to take a day off of work, so it’s not totally devoid of technology. I do try to keep the computer shut down for 24 hours and have done it most weeks.
But I have no intention of “changing jobs.” I created my own job and came up with the idea for my boring-ass PBS website, so I’ll stick it out. But thanks for the advice.
You got me. I am trying to take a day off of work, so it’s not totally devoid of technology. I do try to keep the computer shut down for 24 hours and have done it most weeks.
But I have no intention of “changing jobs.” I created my own job and came up with the idea for my boring-ass PBS website, so I’ll stick it out. But thanks for the advice.
See. That’s REALLY told him.
See. That’s REALLY told him.
@Matt
“The fact is, being plugged in is a way of life these days.”
True, but truth and goodness are not synonymous. The question is whether being “always on” is a GOOD way of life. Lots of people still drive everywhere, doesn’t make it smart or healthy. Lots of people are always connected, ditto.
@Matt
“The fact is, being plugged in is a way of life these days.”
True, but truth and goodness are not synonymous. The question is whether being “always on” is a GOOD way of life. Lots of people still drive everywhere, doesn’t make it smart or healthy. Lots of people are always connected, ditto.