ELKHART, Ind. (Mennonite Mission Network) – Before their week-long technology fast, participants in the Albuquerque (N.M.) Service Adventure unit never imagined a life unplugged.
But they craved a challenge.
Dec. 2-8, 2013, the Service Adventure unit fasted from technology. They hit the switch on everything with a screen. All computers, TVs, IPods, cellphones, Kindles, and the unit’s Wii and DVD players were powered down.
The few exceptions included the house phone, a computer for work, and a cellphone—only for traveling emergencies.
“If we could take away [technology], we would be forced to find new and creative ways to spend our time,” said Brian Krehbiel, the Service Adventure participant who suggested the technology fast.
Even without movies, football games, and Facebook, the unit kept busy with the weekly worship nights and learning activities. Other times, they made crafts and Christmas decorations, played games, read books, and cleaned.
By the end of the week, the Albuquerque unit was thankful to return to life as normal.
Sandie Becker, Service Adventure participant, recognized how addictive technology can be.
In fact, the Albuquerque unit wondered how their technology fast compared to detoxing from any other addiction. According to Sharayah Williams, the unit’s Service Adventure leader, “the first day was bearable.” As the week went on, there were more conversations and complaints about things they missed.
While it was hard at times, “we stuck to our rules really well at home in the evenings,” said Williams. “But during the day, it was really difficult, especially when the rest of the world doesn’t really get what you’re trying to do.”
Despite receiving texts and some strange looks from co-workers, after explaining the challenge, the Service Adventure unit was grateful for the extra time away from technology.
“The technology fast pushed me more than I thought it could,” said Service Adventure participant Adrienne Derstine. “I realized that I don’t want to lead a life that is constantly revolving around social networking and technology.”
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For immediate release
Mennonite Mission Network, the mission agency of Mennonite Church USA, leads, mobilizes and equips the church to participate in holistic witness to Jesus Christ in a broken world. Media may contact news@mennonitemission.net.
