Much has been written about the younger generations and their propensity to use email (now going out as a favorite), texting, Facebook and tweets on Twitter.  I have even weighed in on the subject once or twice.  What is undecipherable to the older generations is why those younger favor those written missives that they so often type on a smart phone.  After all, one can just as easily make a quick call and talk to the other party.

 

The more I think about it, the more I think I have a clue.  I realize I am going out on a limb here; I am a senior trying to think like someone young.  Anyway, I think there are actually a few things in play in the preference for text.  First of all, if you are talking on the phone with someone it means you can't communicate with someone else at the same time.  When you are texting you can have several "conversations" going on at the same time.  All you have to do is stay on topic and make it brief (who wants to type out a long, rambling text message).  Another advantage is that if you are tired of the text conversation, you don't have to hang up and insult the other party; you simply ignore the last message.

 

As for tweeting, what better way to let all your friends and admirers know what you are thinking.  It's akin to a one way conference call.  No need to listen to others tell you what they are doing or thinking; you get to monopolize the conversation so to speak.  Besides, it's a boost to the ego to think others care what you think or are doing.

 

As for email; I understand they are passé these days with the younger generations.  Technology moves forward and those who are young are in locked step in the march into the brave, unknown technological future.  However, even those of us who are older are enthralled with emails.  As I thought about myself, I can understand why.  It goes back to when we were younger.

 

Do you remember when we didn't have computers and had to rely on the Postal Service?  Remember how great it felt to get a letter or even better yet, a gift in the mail?  Well, I think email is the modern equivalent of those old time letters.  Almost no one writes letters anymore; many don't even send greeting cards via the Postal Service.  Today we can whip out a quick email and not worry about our penmanship.  We can review hundreds of cards and decide which one is most appropriate without ever leaving home; no more trips to the local Hallmark store and no more buying stamps which seem to go up in price quarterly. 

 

As recipients we still get that feeling that we got when we opened the mailbox and found a letter or package addressed to us.  Even better, just like those who are younger, we aren't trapped into a long, inane phone call with someone.  Also we can share something funny without the need of trying to describe it over the phone.  Just forward those cartoons, jokes, sentimental thoughts and even your political views - it makes you feel better even if the recipient has no interest in it.  Just a click and it's sent; another click and it's is trashed.

 

So it goes in this brave new world.  If you don't agree with this musing, no problem - just send me an email (john@latenightmusings.com) or leave a comment.  I promise to get around to it soon.