Face to Face

On By K.L. HaleIn Essay, Uncategorized
The Ozark’s-K.L. Hale

The glare of the screen will never replace the light of sun.  And viewing 1200-1800 pixels on a post will never replace the realness of real.   The silence is deafening, and the air grows stale. It was practiced during my day-looking someone directly in the eye.  Even nodding your head to confirm their thoughts.  Maybe a tilt of the head to display interest.  Even a smile to represent the humanness of the verbal exchange.  There would be a pause and that meant that the speaker is graciously giving the opportunity for a listener to respond-simply ingenious. It seems now most heads are down.  Rarely will you hear one voice speak at a time.  But you’ll hear a click or a ding.  It’s to notify.   Sadly, someone died, happily one was born, someone went there, someone stayed home, someone ate this, someone wears this, and someone did this.   Milestones in life celebrated on a screen.   These technology talks should bring us closer, so they say. Celebrations of life last the length of your battery. I look up and around.  And get out.  It’s with nature I have the best dialogue.  The two of us prefer face-to-face.  Imagine a stare-down contest.  Nature always wins.  Sometimes I chit-chat with the leaves and squirrels.   The trees nod to show they understand me.  Clearly, they’re seen as they are and don’t hide from their reality.  They only know to exist in truth.  They happily accept the changes each season brings.  The wind embraces me, and sometimes sings a melody, when it’s time to hug goodbye.  “It was great to see you!” and “I’ll see you soon!” can be heard as I walk away.   It was a true conversation. 

For me, ‘tis better to stroll, than scroll. 

Although I published this in May of last year, this is relevant to me today. Call me weird (really, I don’t mind), but I have no interest in celebrity news, the latest great show (although I love a good movie), diet tips and weight loss videos, and the constant barrage of the “me, me, me” in the media world (I’m so thankful for the baby animal, nature, and humor videos). It seems self-care and self-love trump soul care and love for others. Modesty is replaced with confidence from gained “self-love”. I love seeing the “likes” and meeting new friends, but my self-worth is not tied to the actions of others.

How much time do you spend on a screen? I had to be honest with myself. My learning in a variety of platforms can be overwhelming. Particularly because of the “me” emphasis. Self-marketing should be about finding a group of fellow friends and like-minded souls that will support you (your tribe), no matter what you write. I can’t keep up with all the media “tricks” for instant engagement. Real-time videos aren’t me. Why be something I’m not? If it gives YOU joy and peace–great! To each their own! Our differences, as well as similarities, make the world go ’round. As I seek my Creator, and make this place as much as heaven as I can until I get to the real one, I’ll continue taking care of myself, and keeping my eyes focused on what truly matters. I’ll respond “thank you” to a compliment or kind words, I’ll shake your hand when I meet you, I’ll respond if you call, I’ll look you in the eye if you speak, and if I become distracted from watching “Little House”, “The Walton’s”, “Andy Griffith”, or a good western, shame on me! 😁 Have I told you how much I appreciate all of you? ( I DO!) And do you REALLY know how much you’re loved? 🤍

Finley and I love Tim Janis’s channel! He, and the Nature Relaxation Channel, are wonderful to watch when you need a break for peace and calm.

Have faith 💚

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Flannel with Faith

44 thoughts on “Face to Face”

  1. I can’t agree with you more. I love being in nature. Last week I went fishing in Northern Arizona and had the best day. No cell service. At times the only sounds were the winds in the trees. I silently watched a bald eagle 🦅 soaring over the lake and suddenly swoop down and grab a fish. I was in heaven.

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  2. Bear, Teddy and I got out yesterday and, because today is cool(er), Bear is bugging me (bearing me?) to go out now, but our world will be a lot less pleasant than she is imagining. I hope the wind kicks up again. The looking down at the screen is annoying to me and people’s obsession with things that are not right in front of them is troubling. A month or so ago when I went to a cookout at my neighbor’s house and after dinner all the adults were glued to their phone, I was insulted and annoyed. Then I said, “You’re just old, Martha.” But I was thinking, “Wow. There are actually living breathing people to relate to!” It was unfair of me, possibly, but maybe not. There’s also the assumption that everyone else is waiting for a text and and and … I dunno. But a person’s soul expands under the open sky and if something “dings” in my pocket I just ignore it. I have better things to see, hear…

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    1. I’m so glad you 3 got out yesterday. After I typed you, I shut everything off and headed out. Writing is in my blood. And I think once I get this first book under my belt it will be easier. But what won’t change is how I make room for the rejuvenation in the refuge. I go through seasons where I can’t stand to look at it. Probably because it’s been such a huge part for the last 7 months. And honestly, my eyes suffer. I completely understand your story. I don’t know about the age thing 😉, I feel the same way. And I’ll admit guilt to looking at it when I shouldn’t. Bit mainly because it’s my camera and I have 18,000 pics of my world. It allows me to contact my family. But there are many days I would just soon wrap my fingers around a phone cord and walk out the door without any device. I don’t think you’re being unfair, I think you are aware! I just want to pay attention and stay aware. I’m fortunate that my family loves to sit around the table and visit. I don’t ever expect anyone to immediately answer a text or call because I would never want he or she to feel that pressure (although too much time passing means forgetting~and I get it!). And unless it’s an emergency or a family member, I don’t jump to a ding. I have one notification I use. It’s just part of the world we live in;a phone is an extension of the hand. Ironically, not to communicate as much as to be entertained. My chiropractor has a huge display about “tech neck”. We spoke about all the neck issues he’ll be addressing in the future. I’m trying hard to look up. ❤️💚💙 here’s a big bear hug for you 3! 🤗

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      4. Which iPhone did you get, Martha? When I’m on my cellphone too much it’s because I’m obsessed with pictures! Particularly looking at family and nature! My biggest problem is this: “Let me show you a picture I have!”….30 minutes later I’m still rudely swiping my phone like a teen on TikTok trying to find the one pic out of 18,000 😬🥰 I have many folders. And I’m obsessed with pics as they are my memories. So a couple of weeks ago I sent 280 pics to print. Just like my TV shows, I’m a bit old-fashioned; I still love photo albums!

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      5. I ended up (after the great cell phone saga of 2021) with an iPhone 20 pro. I can’t believe it. It’s what I wanted but I couldn’t imagine affording it, but when the phone I initially bought turned out to be defective, my cell phone company replaced it with this and is charging me only $10 more/month. :O

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      6. Wow! What a great deal! If I ever make it to the refuge can I borrow your camera? 😬🤤🥰💚 I’ve always had the “free” phone that comes with agreement to service. I think mines a 10X? I don’t even know. But the cameras improve consistently!

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  3. I agree on many counts. Social media has some amazing benefits, like the ability to connect with others in your field as well as old friends. But it has some definite drawbacks – especially when people start comparing themselves to others on it. As for TV shows, who can keep up with all the new ones anyway? Lol.

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  4. atimetoshare.me

    Paul is the nature lover in our house. I find refuge in my garden when the air is fresh and clear. Asthma prevents gardening as much as I used to, but we have four windows on the dining room which allow me to enjoy Gods handiwork❤️

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  5. You can sit and watch that all day Karla, pauses the mind for a while as you appreciate them all. The phone has its place but like all things, if it begins to consume you, who then is following who 😀 ❤️ 🙏🏽 🦋

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  6. I get so annoyed with the cell phones at the dinner table… My rule is no phones until you leave the table! It becomes amazing how much more interaction there is if the phone is off and in a pocket or purse! Nature can rejuvenate and connect us to God and all of creation… I’ve been taking a walk around the house looking at all my flowers as they bloom!

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    1. I understand! I eat alone most days so I do a good job following that rule! ☺️😉 But I completely understand. When my sons were younger cell phones weren’t as popular as they are now. A walk around your house to see the flowers sounds perfect! 🥰 🌺🌸🌹

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  7. Karla, what an uplifting post. How often I have gone to lunch with someone for them to check every notification on their phone. Eye to eye contact trumps everything on social media. When we need a real hug, we need real people not a virtual hug. Thank you for being so transparent. I am so happy that I met you through blogging ♥️🙏🏻

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    1. Pam, thank you for such a thoughtful and kind response. Your words are true. I’m glad to have met you as well. Remember that I long to sit in your garden with a cup of coffee. I’d only use my phone to take pictures of all the beauty! But not while we’re talking. 💛🥰🙏🏻🤗

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  8. If I had the choice to go to the mall and go shopping or go fishing…I’d go fishing any day! But I think you already know that….? When I’m out on the river or hiking or camping, I prefer peace and quiet – mostly. Got a little peeved at my boyfriend on Saturday when he had the bluetooth radio going for the first couple of hours. (I know now that he isn’t comfortable with his own thoughts, and it’s something he will have to learn to do on his own.)

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    1. Yes, I do know that about you, Holly. Love it! There was a time in my life where I had to have background music ALL the time it seemed. But never I’m nature unless it’s music by the campfire. I do take walks with music sometimes. But mostly not. Although I love music it is very disruptive when it’s so loud out enjoying nature. Maybe he use Bluetooth earbuds to listen and it would be a win win. It’s like being on a kayak or canoe enjoying the river and very loud music accompanies the trip. I don’t mind music, but again, when it’s so loud and disruptive to others it’s no longer about music. Thanks for stopping by Holly and sharing! Enjoy the outdoors as always! 💚

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      1. It was too loud for me to hear the natural world and it was talk radio…music by the campfire, yes! Of course…on Wednesday, nothing but nature! He brought the Bluetooth radio, but it stayed in the backpack. He knows I don’t need background noise, I think it freaks him out a little. My son is the same way…we can sit in the living room for hours – no tv, radio, nothing but the sound of nature coming through the windows/doors.
        Have a great weekend! ❤

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      2. I’m like you and your son!! Sounds like you had a great time Wednesday. Yay! I can sit with no TV or any noise. I get it! Have a great weekend too!❤️

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  9. I truly believe there are many who feel the same as what you wrote, but are fearful to admit it. To which I say: Good golly! Wake up! Life is passing you by, right under your screens! More & more I feel less & less inclined to click on to ANY social media site. They are cess-pools of nonsensical things. I closed my fb page at least some very long time ago. I believe my IG may be next to go. (Although, I fear I may never receive another great recipe or crochet instruction.) Alas, what is a maiden of God to do? Embrace Him I believe. To which I offer a Hardy, here-here!

    Thank you Karla for reviving an important and timely discussion. I’ve felt it whispering to me in the winds for some time. More and more he affirms this. When shall I finally listen? But more importantly fully embrace (what it is He is whispering to me?) HUGS!!!😘😊😘

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    1. Beautiful and honest response, Dawn. Yes, I’m on a device typing you. And the time is so needed. For here, in this space, I find likemindedness for the most part. And from those who may not see or believe eye-to-eye, I have found respect and DIALOGUE. My heart and mind are open to those just reaching out to find the same. But sadly, as a I’ve sought marketing on IG, it’s evident that it’s about selling yourself. But honestly, I’d rather drive school to school handing out a copy of my book and meeting educators face to face then trying to “grow an audience” that would never have an interest in the book anyway! I’d really rather just babysit my grandkids, kids, cook them meals, go see things,…and more importantly, just help others. This blog is what is making the difference for me in my writing. And this maiden of God hears that I’m to use my gifts for him! I no longer cling to unhealthy things. And this world feels desperate. When I’ve asked God, “Why? Why here? Why now?” And he said, “So I can have you all to myself!”
      There are a lot of wonderful
      People in the world of social media so I cling to them. And when it interferes with my peace journey, I’ll take a break and step out for a bit. Rejuvenation of the soul 🥰. I’m listening too, Dawn. Through all the inconsistencies, waiting, mishaps, and other troubles life throws, HE is the unchanging force in our world 🌎. There is always hope in him. I wouldn’t have found you without this wonderful tool so I’m so grateful! Let’s all stick together through the muck and skip around the meadows with the trees, animals, flowers, and music knowing we know how it ENDS! That is the joy that no one or thing can steal. Huge hugs to you my friend! Don’t stop being a light and listening to the whispers in the wind. ❤️💚💕🥰💛💜🙏🏻😘

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  10. Hello, SOUL-Sister. Truly, so much of what you speak resonates in my heart. 💗 Like, I totally get what you shared regarding IG and the self-promotion. I have another silly-little blog where I read aloud children’s stories. (omasreadingroom.com) I developed it with my grand-daughter, who lives down South, in mind. However, several family & friends encouraged me to share the site publicly so that they too could watch or pass along to others who have littles. Long story short I created an IG account to announce when a new story has been posted. That’s it. Just an announcement. I simply want others to find JOY – in the proper order (Jesus, Others, Yourself) – and if it can be found on my two silly-sites I am grateful to God for using me. 💕 I too have found great sites this way too, so as you mention the cyber-space world is not ALL bad…we simply must prioritized in the order I mentioned above. After my time spent with Jesus and others then and only then on me – taking caution not to allow anything toxic to enter that tiny space.

    I am praying for the success of your book and I envision you traveling from school to school, classroom to classroom passing on your good works. (Just like Diane Keaton in Baby Boom peddling her homemade Baby Food.💗) You’ve got this, girl!
    Hugs & blessings!

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    1. Happy Sunday sister 💕, I found you through your Oma’s Reading Room-I love it. It touched my heart. It reminds me that I need to do special things like it for my own. JOY is all it takes! I’m going to navigate these nuances of social media with JOY in mind. And you’re wise ~keep the tiny space free of toxins. Absolutely! I had an experience of a “Face to Face” in the last 36 hours that I can’t wait to write about. It encouraged me! BTW~I’ve always enjoyed Diane Keaton’s movies~I can relate to her quirkiness 😬😉! Huge hugs to you! I appreciate your words and support sooooo much! 💚❤️🤗

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  11. Jean McDonald

    Was thinking about this post this morning at 4 am while sitting outside in my swing with Jubal drinking my first cup of green tea. It is so quiet just a couple of owls answering each other the crickets chirping i relish this time of day & this time with God. I’ve turned off all notifications on my phone the only sound it makes is when someone calls. I’m notorious among family & friends for not having my phone on me even when there are times i.e.when walking that i should have it with me. I am an outdoor person & love all the amazing things you see & hear. As always a post that sings to me in a voice i cherish! Stay safe & well my friend! Hugs 😘🙏💓💞🎶📖

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    1. Good morning my friend! What a beautiful way to start your day. It’s exactly my cup of coffee, Vicki, I don’t have notifications either. My morning times are the most precious. I understand about not having your phone on you. I’m notorious for saying, “where’s my phone?” I’m so glad we met at the campground and became friends. And thank you for supporting me. Hugs, love, and peace ❤️💚💛🥰🤗

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  15. Getting out for a good walk is where some of my best ideas for stories come from. I’ve also had to be honest with myself about how intentionally I am watching a movie or reading a book sometimes, kind of just “doing the thing” rather than actively focussing on experiencing the joy in those moments whether I’m with others or just with God.

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    1. Thank you for reading and sharing my friend! I love being outside so much. Especially walking or hiking trails. I appreciate your words, “kind of just “doing the thing” rather than actively focussing on experiencing the joy in those moments whether I’m with others or just with God.”~yes!! Take care! I’ve been in Alaska visiting my newest granddaughter and soaking in time with her two year old brother. I saw their short Fall season (trees are still pretty but it snowed and winter and darkness is soon upon them). When I fly home to Missouri overnight I’ll anxiously await our Fall season. It’s my favorite time to get outside. God bless you my friend. Take care! 💛

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