Sunday, March 04, 2007

Can you do it?

Can you last 24 hours without using a computer?

Michele Mandel ("A Day without the Net"), has interviewed Montreal computer programmer Denis Bystrov, who along with friend Michael Taylor has issued a world challenge - Can you shut off your computer for 24 hours?. The big day is aptly scheduled for Saturday, March 24.

There are some awesome You Tube videos available on the main site. My fav is "Alternative uses for your laptop". It is a must-see! (And turn up your speakers).

As well as getting a much-needed break from internet addiction, I see a side benefit to this - It is just possible that the energy saved from computers being shut off all over the world may have enough global impact in the reduction of our collective carbon footprint, that we can finally tell David Suzuki and Al Gore to shut the h*ll up!!!

12 comments:

Rene said...

While the idea deserves credit for it's attempt to perhaps create a little more time for family bonding, I myself will not be taking this up until a treatment centre is created in my area to cure the shakes, sweats and convulsions that will certainly result from a day without bloging!

Joanne (True Blue) said...

Rene, I'm facing the same problem. I think I'll try tapering off as the date approaches, rather than go cold turkey.

However, if Suzuki promised to retire to some remote island, it would be worth the pain and discomfort.

Anonymous said...

Joanne, I left you a comment about which template I used, etc. I went on BT and was surprised all my latest postings were there. Oh well, it's probably for the best. I'll have to e-mail ST.

Unknown said...

An interesting idea ... I think I'll give it a try; however, I am concerned about locating a certain person (who happens to share my first initial) throughout the day ... I mean where would I look!? I wouldn't know where to even start, if I woke up and found a certain chair empty. This is worrisome to me! This will have to be discussed and planned ahead of time, by Voice communication, rather than email ... can you imagine the adjustments!? Yikes!

Joanne (True Blue) said...

Jim's comments are hitting a little too close to home...

Joanne (True Blue) said...

Vicki - lol!!

Anonymous said...

"As well as getting a much-needed break from internet addiction, I see a side benefit to this - It is just possible that the energy saved from computers being shut off all over the world may have enough global impact in the reduction of our collective carbon footprint, that we can finally tell David Suzuki and Al Gore to shut the h*ll up!!!"

Well, I'm offering to turn off my computer for one day, or even longer, and I'll trade credits with Al Gore and David Suzuki. They can contact me in "Computer Rehab" in order to pay me for what I'm doing so that they can continue to live their lavish livestyles. :-)

Step 1....I am powerless over my computer addiction, and my life is unmanageable....(sort of...maybe....not really....I'm bored...don't know what to do....how do I talk to live people???...I'll just turn the computer on for one minute today, then I'll feel better.....ah...)

raz :-)

Brian in Calgary said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Brian in Calgary said...

Raz, your comment was priceless.

As for me, I can do a 24 hour computer fast any time I want to. The question is, will I want to? I'm not sure. Is there a support group for Internet addicts?

Joanne (True Blue) said...

Raz & Brian, you guys are a hoot. lol!

I think Suzuki and Gore are addicted to the sounds of their own voices and the fawning crowds of adulation.

Anonymous said...

Brian, how about a game of technology poker??? or anyone else for that matter who wants to play. :-)

I'll raise you by turning the computer off "and" the t-v for 24 hours. Ha!!

raz

Cicero In Pants said...

I...I... I can turn it off whenever I wan- DON'T YOU TOUCH THAT! DON'T YOU TOUCH MY PUTER!! I'LL CUT YA! I'LL CUT YAAAAAAA!!!