Cornwall Letters to the Editor, 4 July 2024

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Careless use

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Technology is the application of scientific knowledge for practical purposes, originally created to connect people easily through telephone, email and social networks, enabling global communication and friendship.

Despite its intention to connect us, many, including myself, believe that technology has made people more lonely, insecure and insecure.

This begs the question: if technology is meant to connect us, why does it make us feel more alone? Is it our fault or technology’s fault? Let’s analyze why and where the fault lies. Social networks host popular content and content creators. News, rumors or leaks spread like wildfire, keeping people informed and entertained.

While social media offers great benefits, it also has a dark side: fake news, leaks of personal data, fraud and addiction. These negative aspects contribute to our increasing isolation and reduce the time we spend with others. We often find ourselves stuck in our rooms, scrolling through social media non-stop, whether we’re liking posts on Instagram and Facebook, or watching videos on YouTube or TikTok.

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We spend countless hours on these platforms and hardly any time with friends or family.

It’s not just about social media. Other forms of technology, such as television and video games, can also be addictive. In video games, players aim to reach higher levels, and while the ambition is laudable, excessive gaming can be a waste of time compared to achieving real-life goals.

Since the introduction of the telephone, people have communicated more and more through calls than in person. While calls are great for long-distance communication, relying on them for close interactions diminishes the personal connection. Talking face to face builds stronger relationships.

It is mostly our fault that we use technology carelessly. While some technologies can be addictive, we shouldn’t let them distract us. We need discipline and we shouldn’t let technology control our lives.

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It is essential to be aware and cautious when using devices as modern technology can track our actions and locations.

Mohammad Talat Naeem

Cornwall

Considered holidays

Once a year, Canadians come together to celebrate our great nation.

Celebrations take place across our country, including here in Cornwall. A freedom that was achieved and continues because of the dedication and service of all Canadians.

Our standard of living is one of the highest in the world. The care provided by our first responders (paramedics, firefighters, police) ensures that our needs are met. We also owe a special duty to the members of our Canadian Forces who, along with first responders, ensure our safety, protection and freedom.

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Our national birthday holidays also cause many of us stress. The city has a bylaw regarding the sale and use of fireworks and every year they put on a beautiful display for all to enjoy. I used to attend these celebratory events as I grew up in Cornwall, but that was before I signed up to serve Canada in the Canadian Forces.

I encourage the city to continue to have this event and opportunity to celebrate.

Now, like many veterans and their service animals, our peace of mind depends on our neighbors not only following the city ordinance, but considering the well-being of their neighbors and pets.

There are six veterans in my immediate block. I can only speak for myself.

I suffer from post-traumatic stress. Some of my neighbors, when informed of the effect their fireworks celebration is having on me, have stopped, and for that I am grateful. Others continue to celebrate using fireworks in their backyards or have their children on the street setting off firecrackers.

This decision must be made in every household.

I hope we all enjoyed our special day in Canada, whether we spent it at community events or with family and loved ones.

Maj. (Ret.) GW Lanctot, MB, CD

Cornwall

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