Looking around, I sit in a restaurant, observing people strolling by and waiting for the traffic light to turn green.

Observing those waiting to enter a cinema, theatre, bus, or the turnstile to start a game at the stadium, everyone seems engrossed, fingers frantically moving on mobile phones or iPads—typing letters, numbers, or scrolling.

We are preoccupied, more concerned about those beyond the screen—perhaps a relative, a girlfriend, or often, a stranger with whom we argue on social networks.

We neglect those we can see face-to-face in the same location. We can no longer be alone with our thoughts. Rarely does anyone sit on a park bench reading a book or listening to music.

We feel compelled to check the news, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, emails… As time passes, this phenomenon becomes more visible and recognized. Despite good intentions, more and more people become engrossed in their communication device screens rather than engaging with others.

We have a choice: continue down this path or break free from it and begin appreciating people rather than devices.

The decision is ours.

Nothing else matters.