Zoom for group chat is the best you got right now, according to most people, especially my brother who I tangle and argue with the most. BTW, Zoom chats can be and often hacked by uninvited guests. Be careful!
There are other chatroom applications out there to choose from, but Zoom had the foresight to introduce a societal gathering service at a time when most folks are staying home bound, most unwillingly. House Party is another video chat application partially owned and promoted by China. Again, always be protective and careful of your personal information.
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| Dr. Ahmed (+) with my brother Dr. Albano |
My oldest brother calls almost everyday at 6:30 or 7:30 AM to chit-chat about latest government affairs, rumors and gossips of impending changes. Of course we also talk about our siblings, relatives, the ill and those in dire straits needy to be pulled-up. He is last to accept technology that has to offer under living conditions.
He notices the imperfection, nay the absolute limitation of technology to replace the human touch in socialization, and eye contact in conversation. In a previous post, a nightly Rosary prayer has been started among family and relatives. At that start-up, there was a death in the family. Six weeks into the evening prayers, another relative passed away. So, the prayerful intentions have grown; the evening chat room has become the ONLY thing to do. Zoom do cast a gloom in the chat room: for any human interaction to be substantially meaningful, there has to eye contact, handshakes, and hugs.
Ever try to overcome the difficulty to be personal in a group chat room? Try to greet someone in the chat room and choose to look at the person's image on the screen, or the camera eye on your device. Easy? No, I don't think so.
Obviously no handshakes or hugs in the chat room.
Whenever you raise your hand palm side front towards the person you wish to greet, does it not remind you of "I come in peace" messaging in tribal visits?
It has been over two months now since I've been with family, especially the little ones. No hugs or kisses.
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| Granddaughter Samantha |
I've anticipated for granddaughter Samantha to take her first baby steps, to walk, and gain confidence enough to scoot away with her newly found activity. I witnessed all of it, on video!
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| Granddaughter Lily |
Same anticipation for granddaughter Lily to talk me up a storm. I witnessed the same, on video! With TPTB (The Powers That Be) , I may be in this same locked down, ala nursing home facility existence when Lily starts walking in 3-4 months time.
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| Grandson Tommy |
Tommy is a fast growing young rascal now, doing little tyke activities I am sorely missing.
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| Granddaughter Chiara |
And Chiara, a blooming young artist and I don't get to draw and paint pictures with.
Forget about lounging daily around in pajamas, shorts and Tees; don't bet on Zoom to take care of the gloom; it may make things worse.
Lord Jesus,
when you walked with us on earth
you spread your healing power.
We place in your loving care
all who are affected by Coronavirus.
Keep us strong in faith, hope and love.
Bring relief to our sick,
console our bereaved,
protect those who care for us.
We lift our prayer to you Lord,
and trust in your infinite mercy,
as we wait for the daybreak.
Amen.
