◼ “All things, therefore, that you want men to do to you, you also must likewise do to them.” (Matthew 7:12) When we apply those words of Jesus Christ to our use of cell phones and computers, we treat others with respect and show good manners. “My husband and I were at a restaurant,” says a woman named Anne. “Two men were having a meal together at an adjacent table. One of them, though, spent the entire time on his cell phone, talking and eating. We felt sorry for his companion, who ate ‘alone.’” How would you feel if you were that companion? Hurt? Offended? Yes, the fact that we may be able to use a cell phone almost anywhere and at any time does not mean we should. Jesus’ words ought to be our guiding principle.

[Box on page 9]

CELL PHONES, COMPUTERS, AND GOOD MANNERS

How can you use your cell phone and computer considerately? Consider the following suggestions.

◼ Avoid taking or making a phone call when or where you may disturb others. Turn your phone off if necessary.

◼ Do not let your phone disrupt important face-to-face conversations unless absolutely necessary.

◼ When you are talking on the phone, give the person you are speaking to your full attention.

◼ Do not take someone’s picture with your cell phone if this may be impolite or embarrassing to the individual.