Unplugged - Why Unplugging at Camp Matters
"The heavens proclaim the glory of God, and the skies display his craftsmanship. Day after day they continue to speak; night after night they make him known. They speak without a word."
Psalm 19:1-3
Can you hear them? Are you listening? Are you able to listen?
More than ever before in human history, we are connected to millions of others through social media. Sometimes, we get so pulled into our digital life that we forget to stop, listen, and be present in the real one. When was the last time you put down all your electronics, and just sat, went on a walk, or hung out with someone? Maybe you haven't done this or it has been so long since you have that you don't remember what it's like.
At camp, we are ideally situated to be unplugged. You have to leave everything behind, home, friends, school, normal responsibilities, and in return you get to be present with people around you. This may take you outside your comfort zone. It might force you to look at your life with a new perspective. Try something new, slow down, and grow.
Though it is not yet an official diagnosis, many psychologists characterize attachment to technology as a form of addiction. Over half of teenagers now report being on their devices "almost constantly." There is growing evidence that attachment to technology has worsened social skills. We are not created to be on devices all the time. We are created for community, with God and each other.
So as you prepare to come to camp this summer, consider "detoxing" from tech before you come. It will take a minute to acclimatize to the new reality of being unplugged, but you can take steps to lessen the feeling while you are here. Below, I have listed tips to consider in the spirit of unplugging:
- Set a time each day that you will go without any tech, (smart watches included!) Maybe its for 20 minutes, and you can work your way to an hour each day. During this time, go for a walk, sit and have a conversation, or play a game outside with friends.
- Practice going to sleep without your phone. Maybe leave it charging in the kitchen or living room so that you are not tempted to doom-scroll before bed. This may require you to get an alarm clock!
- Set your phones down as a family before meals. This way, you won't be distracted during dinner and can have a tech free conversation.
- Try going tech free for a whole day! Unplug your Wi-Fi router and find things to do at home without the use of technology.
It will be hard at first, you may even find that is...awkward. But it is through discomfort that we experience growth. So do it now and do it often, as the old adage goes, practice makes progress. Invite your friends and family to try with you. It is more fun to do things with people you love, and maybe you can finally crank out that old board game you've let get dusty on the shelf!
I will be praying for your success at unplugging and reconnecting, as I hope you will be praying for mine!
Anthony Ramirez
Program Director
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