The joy of waking up early and breathing in the cold air while finding the perfect seat on the bus is unmatched, especially because it’s finally your school field trip.
I’ve never been the type to step outside my comfort zone. Usually, I find myself in my room staring at a screen. Occasionally, I go out with friends I feel comfortable with, but most of the time, I isolate myself in a dark room and never truly appreciate the essence of life.
It made me question myself: “When did I ever pause and look at nature.”
In today’s society, phones can be very addicting. Every corner you look at, you can see people staring at their phones and scrolling unconsciously. And I admit that I’m also a victim of doomed scrolling. Sometimes, social media can provide pleasure — a form of escape in this broken world.
It made me wonder how many people today do not live in the present moment because of their phones.
Kids in our generation have also been victimized by this ever-expanding device. Today, instead of genuine laughter and comforting physical games, you’ll see children getting angry at the games on their phones.
This reality hit me.
I should live in the present moment and not get caged up by fantasy.
On our field trip, we went to this mall, and there was fake grass everywhere. But it was empty. Not one single person sat there. Instead, they took pictures of a nearby statue.
I took the opportunity to lay down. Embarrassment flushed through me.
I took a deep breath.
I reminded myself once more that living in the present moment and exploring God’s creation is vital for life.
It’s okay to use your phone once in a while, but let us remember the true essence of life: friendship, laughter, and a true deep conversation without any devices.
For the rest of the field trip, I made sure to savor every moment. I occasionally pulled out my phone to take pictures, capturing the excitement and laughter of the group.
Eventually, we reached an amusement park. I paused to take it all in. At that moment, I took one last photo, knowing this memory would stay with me long after the trip ended.
-A.L ౨ৎ ⋆｡°
