The above photo reflects the reality many of us have been experiencing for the past several weeks...virtual reality. I had no idea there were so many video meeting platforms!
I've been using these video platforms to continue my coaching with students and parents, to "meet up" with friends and family, and to stay informed and problem-solve with my colleagues at Peachtree Psychology and Georgia State University.
As helpful (and interesting) as this endeavor into virtual communication has been - I'm over it. I miss three-dimensional human beings! I miss sensing another person's energy and observing their full body language - the "in real life" stuff. Like many others, I've increased my social media consumption to compensate and fill the void created as we stay-at-home.
ARE WE EXPERIENCING A VIRTUAL FREAKY FRIDAY?
One day when I was particularly "over it", I said to my 17-year old daughter, "Is this your life?! Is this what it feels like to be so absorbed in your phone and virtual relationships? Caring about all this stuff?! This is awful!" She glanced up from her phone long enough to raise her eyebrow and say, "Yeah...told you." She had told me. Dozens and dozens of students have told me. I heard them, but I didn't get it. I didn't feel it.
I'm not sure I totally get it now, but I think I understand better. Maybe all of us can understand our kids' virtual experiences better. We (parents) may have strayed into their world out of necessity, but maybe we can use our experience to help us be more compassionate in our parenting.
