Years of culture and modernization has brought every possible trait of civilization and advancement into the country and its countrymen. At the same time it would also seem that in practicing the civilized ways, or in employing the tools of these ‘developed’ times, we may very well be displaying more of regressive than progressive behaviors.
The use of mobile phones figures as a single and chief example in this to make a point mainly relying on the absence of what is called cell phone or mobile phone etiquette.
Picture this, it’s a hospital where people are gathered for reasons varying from visiting a sick friend, relative, spouse or just being there to get medical help for personal sickness. All of a sudden, a loud ringtone goes off that plays for while. The user then answers the call and starts conversing in a most loud volume.
A hospital is place where ‘quiet’ is not only desirable but is most essentially a heaven-sent atmosphere for those present with all sorts of physical and mental agony.
A show of complete disregard by individual(s) is highly insensitive whether it is with or without their knowledge or ignorance of the fine elements involved here.
In a gathering, be it official (meetings etc.) or unofficial (with family, friends), the mobile phone does more distancing than actually closing the gaps. Here too, it is not the device that is the devil but the individuals involved who could display a better show of responsibility.
A general scene in a meeting usually sees a mobile user or two whose phone almost always rings, vibrates or sings to everyone’s annoyance. This not only distracts everyone’s focus from topics of discussion but gives a negative impression on the person caught in the act.
Similarly, even in informal gatherings, friends and families take the pains to gather at a venue by travelling distances and when they actually ‘gather,’ save for a few most would be seen with their faces buried in their phones ’socializing’ online.
It may or may not come to one’s knowledge or notice but more often than not, the person speaking at length to you on something they deem personal and important will most definitely not appreciate you nodding your head unconsciously when all the while your eyes and attention are laser-focused on your phone screen.
All socially and professionally-awkward elements aside, there are heavier and much dearer prices to pay for one’s improper or proper timing in use of the mobile phone. It would in the process result in saving or losing of lives.
Talking on the phone while driving, while operating machineries are times in a day where one can definitely rethink the call for safety.
Published as Business Bhutan Editorial on July 26
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