Janet Cohen Consulting, LLC

I’ve been thinking about becoming unplugged since last Friday night, while we were at a Family Retreat at Greene Family Camp in Bruceville, Texas.

The camp director challenged us to turn off our cell phones and electronic devices as part of a 24-hour event called the National Day of Unplugging, sponsored by the Foundation for Jewish Camp and One Happy Camper. At first, an expression of shock appeared on the sea of adult faces throughout the dining hall. As Loui held his phone high in the air and turned it off, I joined most of the adults who followed his lead. “It’s only 24 hours,” I convinced myself in order to participate.

The gifts that came from that simple act were amazing. I thought of many friends who observe their Sabbath on Saturday or Sunday and refuse to work that day.

I thought of how dependent we become on our electronics, and I vowed not to turn on my phone.

Joy Climbing Alpine Tower

During that retreat, I treated myself to the freedom of spending quality time with my family and with myself. I engaged in lively conversations with people from Texas and Oklahoma, and participated in workshops that challenged both my mind and my spirit. I didn’t miss my phone, my apps, or my email. On Sunday, I continued the tradition.

I watched my daughter with pride as she played daredevil on the zip line and climbed to the top of the Alpine Tower. She has enough courage for both of us, and I’m amazed at her enjoyment of those activities. Mostly, I was proud that she invited me to join her. I might not have noticed that if I was distracted by my business. And I’m proud of myself for prioritizing my family without interruption last weekend.

So what are your priorities? And what do you need to unplug? I want to hear from you. Please post a comment.

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