I’m a self-described bookworm who’s been a little slow on the upstart with cutting-edge technology and the social media that’s intertwined with much of how we go about our daily routines. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not that I don’t like technology, I love it and I marvel at how productive I can be with so many technologically advanced tools at my disposal, like Google, Facebook, Twitter, smart phones, etc. It’s just that I’m in the generation gap where the first place I went for answers to any question was the Encyclopedia Britannica, all 26 volumes, and an atlas the size of a small Radio Flyer. The Britannica, housed in their own custom, brown bookcase in our living room, were revered in our family, as were all books.

Fast forward a few decades and long gone are the days of having to look up anything in an encyclopedia. Just use Google and you’ll find an answer to just about any question that you have, which certainly makes work, and life, much easier. Instant access to information is an absolutely wonderful thing, as anyone who’s purchased a smart phone will attest to. I can also attest to this since I just recently bought an iPhone 3GS. I had no idea what I was missing out on! The iPhone has certainly changed my life for the better. And it’s so easy to use! With the flick of a finger, I have instant access to everything I need, the Web, e-mail, Google, YouTube, voice-recognition calling, 3-megapixel auto-focus camera and video camera, compass, weather, clock, maps, and well, you get the picture.

Access to all of this information is great, but it can be a double-edged sword, at least for me. In our 24/7 society, I’ve become conditioned to want everything fast, fast, fast. Why should we have to wait for anything? I grumble when I have to wait in line anywhere for more than a few minutes, which doesn’t help my blood pressure! But, as with most things, you have to find balance. I’m still working on the patience thing, but for once, I’m glad that I’m not behind the curve with my new smart phone.