I’ve been troubled for some time by all of the reality show driven societal changes.

Instagram started as a way for people to share pics, but now, it seems the majority of Gen Z wants to be “social media influencers”.

What exactly does that mean?

It’s a focus shift…and a disturbing one.

They are determined to show off the fabulous experiences they are having…but are they having them? All of the effort goes into making the perfect shot. Retake until you get the right tag line.

They want to travel…so they can brag about it. How many selfies can they take with famous works of art? At famous landmarks?

Do they look with the eyes of an explorer at all these new places…or as a consumer? Looking to get more likes/follows seems the more likely goal.

I pity those caught up in this vacuous life.

My son – in that generation – is a photographer. It doesn’t surprise me, because he and all my children have been outside kids. Observant offspring.

Instead of staring into a phone or pad, my kids were looking out windows. They used all their senses, and would excitedly roam and explore, showing me their discoveries they found…outside.

To this day, they notice the sky, the clouds, the trees, wildlife.

They notice.

The whole world is going by – and there is so much to do, see, taste, and feel.

None of which can be done while you are holding a phone and striking a pose.