Spring has reached Old Plank Farm at last. The air smelled warm today and the breeze was inviting rather than biting. Our daffodils are up, the clover is greening in the field, and of course the seeding greenhouse is a tropical paradise. Growing vegetables absorbs most of my time and energy, which is nothing new. But my spare energy is anxious, constantly aware of the many people struggling due to the coronavirus and related shutdowns. One thing I've been pondering this week is the effects--both good and bad--that technology has on everyone during these times and in normal times, too.
It is strange the way technological communication connects and isolates us all at the same time. This month, I believe that telephones and internet will help people feel closer in their relationships to other people, a very good thing for dealing with this global crisis. After all, it is one of our only options for being in touch, so one can't be too picky! Suddenly our friends in the next town are no closer, no more reachable, than people who are halfway across the world. I hope all our members can feel connected to our farm thanks to technology; we'll keep up with our blogging, newsletters, website, and Facebook posts in order to share the start of the growing season with you. Your virtual presence is highly valued by me and Angelica, your farmers.
On the other hand, too much screen time sometimes just fuels our problems, including loneliness and feelings of isolation. Yesterday I visited briefly with an Amish man when I was picking up farm supplies at his place. His theory, in good times or in bad, is that people should take their phones and throw them at their TVs, breaking both and thus solving the root of their problems. He said this in good humor, and I think he (and certainly I) know that it is not actually a solution for most people in today's world. Even so, I relate to this man's perspective and find it to be an inspiring way to help people live in the moment. In-person relationships, real relationships, and real activities are vital to human well-being. I don't think anyone should literally follow this Amish man's advice, but we should all definitely consider the wisdom behind his words.
So during these coming weeks I'm trying to balance making use of the technology I have along with letter writing and lots of solitude in nature, too. Just yesterday evening I enjoyed talking on the phone to my dad who is currently living in Qatar. It was the middle of the night there, but he was awake to talk to me. I had been playing my fiddle when he called, so after I picked up the phone I told him I'd play him a tune. I set the phone on the kitchen table and played my favorite bluegrass waltz. What fun to think he might be able to hear it all the way in the Mideast. When I was done playing I picked up the phone again and asked if he heard me. "Heard you?" he said, "Yes, and I think you woke my neighbors, too!" Oops, sorry for the racket, neighbors in Doha...but three cheers for my flip phone!