Technology Makes Moments Even More Precious

I live in Ohio.

My folks live in Arizona.

Google maps indicates that there are 2,065 miles from my door to theirs.  In a good year I might see my folks four or five times.  I love those visits, but it is hard to stay connected with such a great distance.

When I was growing up in the 60s we lived in Ohio and both sets of Grandparents lived in upstate New York.  I can remember my Mother writing long letters every Sunday night.  She and I would finish the dinner dishes and then she’d sit down at the card table in the family room and write letters to both parents while we watched television. 

Now we write long newsy emails and call each other several times during the week.  The conversations are mostly between Mom and I but occasionally my Dad and I talk and on a rare occasion my kids will call and fill my folks in on exciting events in their lives.

Today we took it a step farther.  I gave them a webcam for their MAC for Christmas and this afternoon we sat in our respective homes – cell phones on speaker – setting up their SKYPE account and hooking up the Logitech webcam.  Before too long we were connected.  My kids joined me and we were all live on the screen – seeing each other’s faces – such precious faces – over the computer – for free!

You may have used your webcam to create a vlog or video to upload to YouTube.  And maybe you connect with long distance customers and conduct productive meetings via the Internet.  But have you used it to melt the miles between loved ones?

My Dad was recently in the hospital.  It took five days for the doctors to learn what was ailing him and during that time they insisted that I didn’t need to leave the kids and my business and go to the expense of flying 2,065 miles to see him.  He would be just fine. 

Today, I got to see for myself just how good he looks.  I am thanking God for technology today which provided a precious moment for me; melting the miles and bringing me closer to my family.