Family

A lot of people fuss these days about modern technology and claim that it disconnects us, makes us passive observers of our lives rather than active participants.  Much of what these folks say is probably true but I, for one, am quit grateful for the tech that is now readily available to almost everyone.  

Some time back, during a bad spot in a marriage, I lost contact with my half sister and half brother.  I had no idea how to get in touch with either of them and some online searches in directories for cities where I knew they had resided failed to yield any results.  I have had this percolating in the back of my mind for a while, since they are really the only family I have left.  The other day, while I was sitting in meditation, the thought rose up in me that I should try looking on one of the social networking sites for them.  

With some trepidation (I have had bad experiences with social network sites), I went on Facebook and, within about five minutes, I had located my sister and through her friend list, my brother as well.  I messaged them both and my sister contacted me last night.  We have exchanged happy emails and plan on talking this weekend by phone.  I am waiting for my brother to reply yet but I am sure that I will hear from him soon.  

So, on this day, I am simply expressing my gratitude for the modern technologies that allow us to reconnect with people we care about.