Alone together

The paradox of having instant communication tools and constant connectivity lies in its subversive function of inserting distances between those near and dear.

A band of friends is celebrating a reunion with a grand luncheon. The food is piled high on the lazy Susan and the room is properly heated.

Yet the warmth of the occasion can be detected only by the two or three engaged in casual chat. Most of the others are buried deep in their iPhones or iPads, only occasionally lifting their heads to acknowledge their presence. One of them would take a photo of a newly arrived dish as if to establish a link between her online activity and her taking part in the event.