Is your i_____ (fill-in-the blank) killing your leisure time? iPhones, iPads, and iPods are just a few of the many devices we use to relax and have fun.  But is the weekend at the lake still the same when you’re wired?

Geoffrey Godbey, a professor of leisure studies at Pennsylvania State University says:

"People enjoy [leisure] in a different way, the joy comes from no longer following routines that are laid down for you and doing things because it's what everyone else is doing."

Godbey believes people still enjoy their leisure as much as ever:

"So we're not more miserable. On the other hand, we're not more happy."

And in the end it illustrates an age-old story. We’re suspicious of change. We resist doing things differently. And we shouldn't. It’s not what we do, but who we are that needs our focus.

A weekend with technology is our reality now. Embrace it, but don’t abuse it. Stick to what brings you contentment - leisure time spent connected to family, friends and faith.

Syncing to Real Life

Thank you for helping me to disconnect,
if only for a short time.
No television or computer.
No social media or texting.

Rather, fresh air and pungent smells,
Pointed sounds and colorful sights,
Surprising tastes and varied textures.
Genuine, caring people.

Thank you for replacing those sometimes
wasted electronic moments,
with true connections.
Family and friends,
Love and laughter.
New memories I'll cherish forever.

Most of all,
Help me to stay connected to You.
Let me not become so consumed,
so distracted by gadgets and remote controls,
that I forget the source
of my strength, my peace, my hope.

"WHAT INSPIRES YOU TO FLIP THE OFF SWITCH?"