Lately, I've been thinking a lot about balance in the various areas of my life. But really, what does it mean to have balance? I recently read Shine Hipp's book called "Flickering Pixels" about how technology affects our faith. Basically, technology affects how we perceive and relate to God, among. The challenge of Hipp's book is to think about how we use technology and how it changes our daily life and perceptions. When it comes to technology, balance helps to keep the whole kit and caboodle from spiraling out of control.

Over a year ago, I made the decision not to own a television. I haven't looked back since. And yes, I do watch online episodes and movies on Netflix and hulu, but it's not streamed into my living room and isn't letting television viewing be a default activity. It's not straining my concentration by being on in the background. I'm also not limited to network schedule either in that I must watch a show at a certain time each week and consequently miss attending events or spending time with friends and family. More importantly, television isn't teaching me to be a passive observer anymore. 

In the past several months, i've made a conscious decision to change some of my habits. Here's two examples:

1. Not rudely answering phone calls or focusing on my phone when with other people. When I'm with people, I put aside my technology and be wholly in a conversation.

2. Time away from screens. Computer screens strain eyes and just like people need sleep, eyes need rest.

While these two new habits aren't balancing yet, it's a start. Big change happens one step at a time...