With the myriad of electronic tools available today we can have information and communication instantly at just about any time and in just about any place.  However, it is important to keep a good balance and use these tools wisely.  I was reminded of this the other day in a church meeting when the speaker was talking about not using cell phones during the meeting.  All the while, there was a young girl in front of me that just couldn’t stop texting clear through the speaker’s talk.

Other common bad examples are cell phones going off in concerts, funerals, church meetings, and prayers.  While it’s interesting to see what someone has picked for their ring tone, it is pretty distracting to the participants of the event.

Whether it be laptops, GPS devices, MP3 players, cameras, tablets, cell phones, or whatever, it’s important that we make sure that they are being used at the appropriate time and in the appropriate way.  Elder Scott Whiting gave a message in the March Ensign about Digital Detachment and Personal Revelation.  His message emphasises the importance of using technology wisely and turning it off when it is time.

Part of using technology for good is knowing when to use it, where to use it, and when to turn it off.  When we are in control and use these devices appropriately, we can avoid embarrassment and help keep the Spirit in our lives.