Don't Know What You've Got (til it's gone)

On my way into work, my cell phone tumbles out of my hand and onto the sidewalk - in the middle of a call - the battery spilling out of its plastic casing. I stop in my tracks and stare down at the scene with a face I imagine to be shock and horror. It must be funny, because two old guys up the street are laughing at me. I pick up the pieces and there's no visible damage beyond a few surface scratches. When I put the battery back in and turn the phone on, the familiar jingle of start-up has me hopeful, but the screen is black. Even so, it works and I am able to call back and explain why the line suddenly went dead.


Later in the day, I learn that while I can make phone calls, I can't receive them. This is a more pressing issue, so I go in to the retailer to see what is to be done. Apparently, the only remotely affordable option is to wait for a replacement to come in the mail.


Anxious to be cut off from the world, I set up a voicemail message explaining my inability to receive calls and check my voicemail several times a day. I don't know why I'm surprised that no one tries to reach me. Every time I check, the voicemail counter is empty but I still log on, just like all my friends compulsively check facebook daily even when they know nothing has changed since yesterday.


There's something comforting in just the possibility that someone could get in touch with you, that the best new friend you haven't met yet or the perfect employer is just a ringtone away. When that is taken away from us, we feel more vulnerable when really it's the other way around. There's an unbelievable freedom in being off the grid, even for a few days, that I should be enjoying. Work, friends, family, utility companies, landlords... anyone who needs something from me now has to wait. I'm not just a ringtone away. I'm on my own time.


But let's be honest, I want my phone back. I've always been a Linus's blanket kind of girl.


... and maybe I should go check facebook. you know, just in case...  ;)

- wit -