Digital Mouse

I grew up in the 90s. Which, when you think of it, wasn't a long time back. But God, what a sea change in lifestyle between then and now.

We grew up sticking pencils into cassette tapes, winding the ribbon around the wheels carefully. All my little one has to do is click.

You know it's interesting- with all the technology we are surrounded with that's meant to make life easier, I don't think it has managed to make our days any more simple. Where's the need for human exchange if you can google all that you need to know.  And thanks to the selfie phenomenon, nobody needs to request anyone for a picture anymore, thereby eliminating any chance of polite interaction with a fellow human. No 'excuse me, could take a picture please?' No thank yous. And no friendly talk about where the person is from or if they too are visiting like you are. 

 We may cohabit this planet, but we certainly live in our own individual worlds. Making small talk is an art we've lost. I know I have.

Remember the quintessential neighbourhood aunty whose nose was decidedly in everybody's business? The one who knew everything about everyone and the rest she drew from imagination? The one who'd bring over a plateful of homemade snacks in exchange for some juicy gossip?

She isn't there anymore.

And I miss her. If only to have someone to crib about or laugh at.

You could always count on aunty for a cup of sugar or the breaking news from two buildings away.  But she doesn't exist anymore. And I bet aunty too is enjoying the voyeur life online where there's enough celebrity gossip to quench her curiosity and fan her creativity😄 Or perhaps she's busy playing candy crush.

But honestly, while I do miss the days gone by, for an extroverted introvert like myself digital interactions are a boon. Conversations are convenient. Emojis do most of the talking. No obligations. You have the freedom to accept, decline, hide and block- what luxury! 

Wish I enjoyed such freedom in real life- to be able to block or decline without guilt or embarassment. I express a lot more over digital platforms than I do in person. And while it may appear unnatural or weird, I find it safe and comforting. Since I've never been able to forge friendships easily or proactively (I can count the ones I can count upon on one hand alone), the virtual world despite all the connections it offers, funnily enough also grants me the privacy I may not have had otherwise. Man may be a social animal. I'm a digital mouse.

Not a good practice I know. Especially when I think of my growing years. Back then I knew every kid in the neighbourhood and now I barely exchange a few words with the people in my own apartment building. Thank god for the old friends living so close to home! With them I'm don't slip into being a mouse. Among these carefree connections my personality varies from being the mad dancer and loud horn to clueless, opinionated nutcase and agony aunt. 

So should I step outside my comfort zone and express myself more in person than over the digital space? Hmm. That thought requires some thought. Maybe in another post.