For better...or for worse?

In an increasingly technological society, many people see this as an advancement, but there are certainly several drawbacks. It is reasonable to questions whether or not these innovations benefit or hurt society overall. It's obvious in everyday life that people have become more isolated than we once were. Everyone has their phone with them at all times, text messaging, checking e-mail, or facebook. It makes you wonder if we're heading in a bad direction. As fascinating as each new advancement in technology is, it is also a sign of an increasingly isolated environment. Social interactions are crucial to human life, and modern devices have made communication much less personal. Even though it may be less uncomfortable to have an argument via text message or e-mail, it removes the personal element, which is essential to fully resolving problems. Emotion and expression are completely lost through technology, as there is no way to really know the tone with which someone is talking, and could be taken in the wrong context. For several reasons, I do think that modern society has had negative effects on social abilities of younger children, as they're growing up with video games, computers, instant messaging, etc. Regardless of how much technology we have access to, it is more important to use these devices in conjunction with actual, face-to-face, interactions with others.

Who Am I?

This seems like it would be a simple question to answer, but it's actually somewhat challenging. If I tried to describe myself in a few words I would probably go with hardworking, dependable, and independent. My parents and my friends are the most important part of my life. Without them, I wouldn't be who I am. I always try to see the best in other people, even though they may not see it in themselves. I never give up. That's the way I live my life: always striving for success. I feel as though I've failed if I don't go beyond expectations. I take pride in everything I do, and I really try to support the people I care about in my life. Knowing what's going on in the country and in the world is very important to me. I think that many people live very sheltered lives, and there is so much conflict worldwide that it's a shame most people are not aware of any of it. Although it may not directly affect any of them, there are millions of people who need help, and so many ways to give of yourself to help others. I think in society people have become increasingly self-centered, and less focused on the 'big issues'. My main goal in life is to make a difference in some way, shape, or form. I want to change something and I want to look back on my life and smile, knowing I wouldn't change any part of it for anything: no regrets. So, I'm really an optimistic person that constantly tries to find the silver lining of any situation. I believe that if everyone puts in a little effort, as queer as this may sound, we have the power to change the world.