WHEREAS I recognize communication an essential component of the human experience;

WHEREAS we are a people desirous of contact with other human beings;

WHEREAS we are adapted with such mechanisms to make communication possible;

WHEREAS I recognize value in being in the presence of those made like us;

WHEREAS I recognize value in reflection, contemplation and simplicity;

WHEREAS we are a people inclined towards efficiency, convenience and ease;

WHEREAS we are a people inclined towards all things new;

WHEREAS there are those in existence gifted in offering services to those inclined towards efficiency, convenience, ease and newness;

WHEREAS those services do always and evermore come at a price;

WHEREAS such price is relational, personal and monetary;

THEREFORE

I do declare the suspended use of all those devices designed to distract, deter and otherwise impede the human experience, including but not limited to the use of cell phones, computers, television, Smartphones, Facebook, radio, texting, Tweeting, faxing, gaming systems and the like, for a period of one day, beginning August 28, 12:01 a.m.. and continuing for 24 hours until the stroke of midnight.

Rex Alphin is a farmer, businessman and contributing columnist for The Tidewater News. His e-mail address is rexalphin@aol.com.