What began as an oversized "brain" made of wires, metal and countless conductor boards, has evolved into modern PC. We have at last designed perfect mechanism to do our bidding. It thinks for us, supplies and stores information, and now with more and more technology, we can even speak to other peoples by means of a computer translator. The small screen that sits atop our office counters, our workbenches and our personal desks at home has become brainchild of society's modernization, and has revolutionized way we do and encounter most things.

Although it is just a machine, it has served a wonderful purpose. Through use of computer equipment, time is no longer a challenge. Messages, tests and reports can come back to us in a matter of seconds. Physicians, technologists, mechanics, archeologists, biologists, and so many other career paths have endless uses for this manmade tool. It has rewarded us richly with its knowledge, as we have enriched it with ours.

But, question still remains: At what point does tower of Babel (figuratively speaking) collapse? When has humankind reached its boundaries and at what interval will all be lost because of modern technology? The world is our oyster - but what we must never forget is that pearl of an oyster is created by disease. Just a thought to ponder.

© LadyCamelot 2003

LadyCamelot currently serves as the Public Relations' Director for Holistic Junction.com - Your Pathway to Discovery - A community of people interested in all things holistic. Here, you will find what you need; share what you know; discuss what you're not sure about. Create your own web site, participate in online forums (over 80 categories), peruse the Business Directory, publish your original articles, opinions, artwork, and so much more.

The private sector is moving as well. Because of misuse (and not isolated incidents), YMCA in USA is advising its hundreds of independent gyms nationwide to ban camera cell phones on premises. The YMCA of Australia has already done this.

7. Don't count on social norms. Be proactive.

Professor Thomas thinks social norms will develop, but personally I question that. If so, people would not be rude with cell phones already. If it comes, great. In meantime, educate your child on responsible cell phone, camera and computer use and model good behavior yourself.

8. Camera cell phones can be used for identity theft.

Teens need to be aware when paying by credit card. Anyone standing near you with a cell phone in their hand can take a picture of your credit card and get all vital information from it. 9. Establish rules with your child or teenager and enforce them.

Don’t allow your child to have a computer in their bedroom, teach them respect for others, and educate them in use of technology (just as you do bikes, microwaves, electric knives, gas grills, guns and cars). Go over what bullying is and make direct inquiries of your child. Here ( http://www.canoe.ca/NewsStand/LondonFreePress/News/2003/09/02/174030.html ) is a list of symptoms to watch for in both bullied and bully. It's considered preferred bullying method of girls, BTW.

10. Get informed and speak up.

One danger is that your child may know more about these tech toys than you do. Learn their capabilities and how to monitor. For instance, you can check on cheating and bullying by clicking into phone’s text messaging history. Teach your child to speak up when bullying occurs (and do so yourself at work). 85% of all bullying occurs when there is only a peer present.

Work with school officials re: your child. Ray Hughes, violence prevention co-ordinator with Thames Valley District School Board says a class or seat change can help bullied, and bullies need consistent, non-violent consequences for their actions both at home and at school.

Work to establish Emotional Intelligence programs at school and at work that teaches respect and "social norms". Social norms are made, not born.