Are Cellphones the New Drug?

Michelle Gonzalez, Reporter/Photographer

Everywhere I go, people are using their phone even when it isn’t necessary. I go buy Panda Express to satisfy my cravings and people are in line, on their phones, while they wait. When I have to walk home after a long day at school, I see a few pedestrians crossing the street, with their eyes locked on their screens. Sometimes I go into public restrooms and I see females coming out of the stalls, replying to messages. Drugs are addictive, but so is technology, specifically smart phones.

Ten years ago, it was much easier to start a conversation with someone while going to school or going to work in public. Now, everybody is on their smart phone distracted from the outer world, seemingly antisocial, so I do the same. I know I am not the only one, but people do get influenced by others and I substantially see it more often.

It’s terrible what society has drifted to, making smart phones the ultimate fixation. Some people are so highly addicted to their smart phone that they can’t let go of their phone for even a second. I honestly don’t even think that having a cell phone is a must. The only reason that seems legitimate is to have some form of communication to parents or friends when needed. Yes I’m on social media all the time, but after a while I get extremely bored. I just want to go out, have fun and enjoy the real world. Unfortunately, it gets more and more difficult when smart phones and technology keep evolving to grab our attention.

Instead of using a phone for unnecessary reasons, read a book, explore your surroundings, go out and eat with friends or maybe even start a conversation with someone who is also willing to keep it going. It’s better to start making a change in our daily routines before most people become too difficult to speak with.