The Wireless at Downton

I know there are many disappointed fans with the recent announcement that next season will be the final one for Downton Abbey. I’ve moved from “don’t want to miss an episode” to an occasional “I’ll catch a little bit if it’s convenient.” That was not an intentional progression, rather only because I missed most of a season or two so thought I’d missed too much to really be in the know. What was I thinking? After all, it is a soap opera.

A recent episode I did watch, like all, had some hysterical snippets and quips. One of the most thought provoking (and prophetic?) came as Rose begged Lord Grantham for a “wireless,” (aka a radio.) Robert and Mr. Carson were completely against it, with Robert exclaiming that this “thief of life” had no place in his home.

Did he really just say say that? Thief of Life.

I was struck by his words. No, not related to a radio but with our wireless devices of today.

Something to ponder:

• In what specific ways does technology support you, your goals and your core values?
• How does technology strengthen and how does it undermine your most important relationships?
• What areas of your life are negatively impacted or “stolen” by technology?

Clearly many aspects of our lives are technology-centric so the questions might seem odd, even trivial. “Why we can’t operate without technology!” could easily be the quick-and-done answer, and for the most part I agree. But I encourage you to think about the topic on a deeper level and engage your family in a discussion. I suspect we all have areas of our life that are undermined by our devices. What steps can you take to alleviate the negative impact?

Back to the episode – I couldn’t help but chuckle at one of the servants asking, “if it is supposed to be wireless, why are there so many wires?” and considering that every “Ten Ways to Get Organized” article presents a new tool and technique for managing the cords of our “wireless” world….

This is a topic where we can learn from each other, so feel free to comment below on your thoughts and ideas.