This Saturday I have the privilege of giving three talks to a group of middle school and high school students. One of the topics for a breakout session talk is addictions. As I've been praying for the Holy Spirit's guidance and reflecting and thinking about addictions I've been struck by the huge variety of addictions we have in our society. Some are obviously destructive, others more subtle, and others even more cunning and sneaking than the rest, so much so that as a society we don't even realize the addiction. From the cliche addictions of drugs and alcohol which although cliche are very much prevalent, to pornography, entertainment, food, sports, and technology especially phones. I hope to write on all of these topics, but first I want to focus on addictions to technology because I believe that smartphones and tablets have opened a whole pandora's box that most parents are unaware of.
There is a clear and present danger that is inexplicably missed, ignored, or simply embraced and we are placing the most vulnerable in our society, the most precious right in the claws of this danger without educating or preparing the young to navigate these treacherous waters.
