By Rev. Fr. Iwuchukwu Vincent
DIGITAL ADDICTION
To My Dear Children,
I hope this letter finds you well. I write to you with a heart full of love and care. Also, I write to you because I see something that is subtly growing in our world, something that is capable of stealing your joy, your focus, your productive years, your freedom, and your self-worth if you’re not careful – digital addiction. I see how much the digital world surrounds us, and how easily it can draw you in. Phones and digital devices, games, social media, and the internet are helpful tools. They can help you learn, stay connected, and even have fun. But when they begin to control your attention, your time, your mood and distract you from real life, then they become a snare to your soul. In a world filled with screens, notifications popping up here and there, and endless scrolling, I want to gently remind you of this precious truth: your life is larger than the digital world and you are more than a device. You were created for real purpose, real love, and real connection with people.
Have you noticed how constant scrolling takes away your laughter? How you’ve suddenly lost your inner beauty and your ability to engage in real life conversations. How easily you forget time in front of a screen but struggle to focus for just few moments in prayer, personal conversation, or study? I have also noticed how you are glued to your phone and how you can’t keep it down for few seconds. I even noticed how you struggle not to tap the phone during mass. These are indicators that you can’t live without these things. It’s danger looming!
There is a beautiful world around you – sunsets, books, adventures, music, a new friend, conversations, visit to the chapel, etc. There is also a world within you which you need to discover and explore. Do not trade that beauty for endless scrolling. It will leave you empty.
Often times you let your value be defined by likes, views, followers or trends, and when these things do not meet your expectations you feel depressed and sad. The digital world is full of noise, distractions, and even harmful messages. You must as a matter of fact protect your mind from these hurtful things. Remember that the Scripture tells us that: “everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible, but I will not be mastered by anything” – 1 Cor. 6:12. Refuse to be a slave to technology. I am not asking you to throw away technology rather master technology and not let it be your master. Stay wise. Stay present. Stay free.
I love you always,
Father Vincent.
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