A cell phone I purchased from Verizon recently began malfunctioning. As a result, I have discovered the true meaning of Verizon's "Freedom Plan."
For all the emphasis I like to put on technology when it comes to communicating, I would like to share how liberating it can be to be without a cell phone for a few days - how much laughing and fun I have had since my Verizon cell phone died and I was promised a replacement in two business days...on a Friday.
I have been cell phone-free for five days.
I was at the Fancy Food Show at the Javitz Center in New York on Sunday and I had to meet a colleague whom I promised to call when I arrived at the exposition facility. The only way we could connect was by cell phone. I kept dialing her number but could not hear or see a thing since the backlight and sound on my phone were not working.
At the same time, my friend could hear me, but I could not hear her. She kept calling my name into her phone, “Angela, Angela, ANGELA, ANGELA ANNNNNGELLLLL-LA!” Everyone in the vicinity of my colleague’s booth thought that perhaps she was having trouble with HER phone. Or better yet – she did not know how to use a cell phone at all. The place was roaring!
Meanwhile, back at the main entrance to the Fancy Food Show, I spotted a gentleman who seemed to be waiting for someone as well. I asked him if I could trouble him to use his cell phone. “Mine is dead - kaput - and I can’t get into the show because my colleague has my pass and she’s at her booth waiting for my call.”
He did not hesitate. He dialed her number – eventually we got through and I connected with my colleague.
During the interlude, the gentleman asked me what I was doing at the Food Show and I said, “I own a media agency and we represent clients in the food industry – marketing, advertising, public relations – that kind of stuff.”
"What about you?"
“I’m a chef. I own a restaurant and am involved in several businesses and in new product development,” he said.
“Maybe you could use our services,” I asked.
“What, with your cell phone issues, how could you possibly help me,” the chef asked. We laughed so hard.
I responded, “I may not have the greatest cell phone technology, but I sure know how to get attention for our clients. And anyway, I got to meet someone new today because of it, so I’m glad my cell phone isn’t working.”
My cell phone could not have malfunctioned at a better time. As a result, I met a potential client, but most importantly, the encounter set the tone for lots of laughter and an all-around wonderful day.
Next time your cell phone is not working, take advantage of the opportunity to meet someone new.
Why wait for a cell phone calamity? Anyone who wants to energize their day and just break away from the monotony of ringtones, text messages, e-mail and call waiting should spend a few days without a cell phone. Do not just turn it off. Bury it. Instead of going wireless, just get up and go! Experience the benefits of a cell phone-free day!
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