Thoughts after viewing "The Machine Is Us/Using Us"

I have now watched and re-watched "The Machine Is Us/Using Us" a few times.  The most powerful part of this short video is the end when the filmmaker, Michael Wesch, asks the viewer to think about how as the Web is such a part of our lives we must re-think EVERYTHING.  Community, privacy, love, family, relationships, ownership, governance...  We have seen big changes already in the last 20 years and there will continue to be more.  I feel we’ve just scratched the tip of the iceberg.  We need to decide what we want from the Web and how best to utilize it as a TOOL so that it does not overrun our lives.  Already I see people, even family members who are addicted to their phones and using the Web.  Social media and gaming are the two biggest issues I witness.  We need to find the balance between using the Web to make our lives easier and more connected to family and friends and having a monkey on our back that is constantly nagging and interrupting our time with family and friends.  My family is probably tired of hearing me say, “Be with the people who are here!” as I get frustrated to find everyone with their nose pointed down toward their phones every time I turn around. 

In watching the credits for the film, I noted the composer DEUS and the name of the song that plays throughout; “There’s Nothing Impossible.”  How true.  20 years ago it I would not have imagined the progress we have made in such a short time.  Truly, there is nothing that is impossible.   Now, to use this tool and the power it has to better our lives, not detract from them.