A Eulogy

It is with a heavy heart that I write these words. I am here today to commemorate the passing of two very special things. They have been with us for most of our lives and, therefore, are difficult to say goodbye to, even though they have become second class citizens. I am sad to announce the passing of two old technologies, talking and listening.
Way back when, often referred to as "the good old days", we had no choice in communication except face-to-face talking and listening. It was a good way to convey our needs, ideas, thoughts and more. Many strides were made for the betterment of mankind because people gathered around and actually took turns talking to and listening to each other. You received more than just the words spoken because you could look the person in the eye, notice their body language or the tone they were using. You had plenty of clues along with their words.
But time passed, and many new technologies were invented on the promise that they would better our lives. We soon gave up talking and listening for new, advanced things like instant messaging, texts, and emails. The upside was that we could get information to anyone, any where, at any time of the day or night. We could also receive information just as easily. The trouble is, a text only allows so many characters and it is written in cryptic form that has destroyed correct spelling for an entire generation (Where r u?) It offers very little about anything the sender is feeling and is often misconstrued. It is not accompanied by facial expressions, hand gestures or voice inflections. It is flat. In its flatness, it has flattened our relationships. We often choose the text as a way to communicate so we don't really have to speak to the person. It offers a shield. It keeps us apart in a way that the old talking and listening do not. How often is a person's text snarky and kind of pushy, but when you meet with them, they are as nice as can be? The shield is down and in its place are their facial expressions, their voice inflection and gestures. All these are as much a part of communication as the words tumbling from their mouth. Talking and listening are the ultimate examples of give and take in society and they will be missed.
Rest in peace.