I don’t like cell phones. Now before all you cell phone addicts disown or shun me, read my explanation. Cell phones can be great tools when used correctly. This includes calling your grandparents long-distance every Sunday, or keeping a cell in the car for emergencies. However, cell phones can be great pains when used at inappropriate times and in inappropriate places.

Let’s go back to the basics. Telephones in general are for the purpose of communication. One-on-one communication is a beautiful thing. The art of conversation is not something to be taken lightly. Two people exchange hopes, dreams, and ideas through words. Taking turns speaking and listening, the two can learn much about each other. It is through these meaningful conversations that we make and keep our friends. We grow closer to our friends and family members, which is always a good thing.

This “good thing” is made easier with telephones, especially cell phones. Even though I’m currently two states and a Great Lake away from home, I can have great conversations with my mom at anytime. High school friends at different colleges and those in long-distance relationships can stay close, even while miles apart. Phones also keep conversations private, giving you the freedom to share anything and everything.

Yes, cell phones are great for convenient conversations. What’s not great is when cell phone users become cell phone abusers. They take those beautiful private conversations and expose them in public places. Go ahead and say love-y things to your boyfriend on your cell phone, but not around me. And I don’t care how cute and old your grandma is; I don’t want to hear you talking to her in the bathroom stall next to me. By making your private phone calls in public places, you cheapen the art of conversation. And you’re just plain annoying.

Speaking of annoying, I think you’ll agree with me that chapel is not a place for cell phones. There is a time and place for everything, but chapel is not the time or place to talk on a cell phone. Turning your ringer off before entering a place of worship is a common courtesy that should become habit. Know when to turn your cell phone off, and keep your priorities in order.

When having a conversation, you want to keep the exchange of words a top priority. If not listening attentively, you’re carefully speaking your opinions. Cell phone abusers try to multi-task by talking on a cell at the same time as watching TV, hanging out with friends, or driving in a car. Multi-tasking like this lessens the quality of your conversation, and angers the people around you. Using a cell phone while driving is a big distraction that can put your life and others’ lives in danger.

Yes, cell phones are great tools for convenient conversation. Don’t misuse these tools. Use your cell phone responsibly. Keep your priorities in order by not letting the use of your cell phone take over your life. Finally, show respect by making private phone conversations in private places. Meanwhile, I’ll try to overcome my dislike of cell phones. Say hi to your grandma for me!

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