August 3 - Put Down the Camera

Enjoy this MOMENT . . . this moment is your LIFE! 

      The other day I had two of my grand kids, Jaylin and Jace, with me. They were on the tire swing laughing and giggling. They were being silly and having a great time. I was sitting on a nearby swing watching them, and pulled out my camera to take a Snapchat (a video) of them laughing. It was a great moment and I loved hearing their giggles, so I thought I'd share it. When they saw that I had my phone / camera out, they immediately stopped swinging. Jaylin, who is 9, held out her hand and shouted "STOP!" So, I did, and then I started wondering about my constant need to capture and share so much. I love having pictures, especially of my grand kids, so I'm sure I won't ever quit taking pictures. But, in thinking about it from their perspective I wondered how it must feel to constantly have Mema trying to take their picture. Annoying is my best guess! They should be allowed to be silly and laughing without having to worry about how they look and who I was going to share their silliness with.

    In today's world of social media, taking pictures and videos to share the moment has become so
and mindful of the very moment we are trying to capture. Why isn't the moment enough without the need to share? If I can capture a few snapshots of special times with the kids, then I think I should put down my phone and just enjoy being with them.

I pledge to be mindful of my need to constantly take pictures and to share every moment. I can find happiness in observing and being in the moment. While I like to share the joy I'm experiencing and witnessing, I need to remember it is not always necessary, and in fact can be intrusive.

So  my challenge to myself and others is to be mindful of the moments you are photographing. Personally, I don't think it's necessary to give it up altogether, but don't let it overshadow the fun you are having or the fun of those you are photographing.

(Days 222-236)