I was born on September 18, 2003. Clearly, I developed alongside digital devices. I was antsy to get my hands on them–a variety of buttons to push (once a luxury) and other endless assets to explore. For this purpose, I vaguely recall my sisters’ Rzr flip phones and my father’s trusty BlackBerry, but I vividly remember the first iPhone. While my sister wanted to test a new gadget during each visit to the phone store, my mother settled for this freshly released invention. As a result, she utilized its newly composed efforts for years. Presently, it rests in our kitchen drawer, its history exhibit.
Contrary to popular belief, these devices are not all fun and games. In fact, media becomes a highlight reel rather than a collection of memories. I miss a moment because of the high quality and bright smiles. Unfortunately, I rarely consider my emotions when the camera flashed. Pictures can be deceiving, but my recollection and personal relationships will stand the test of time.
Although touchscreens have stolen home buttons’ spotlight, their influence lingers. I can relive much of my childhood through a camera roll. For instance, the tiny fingerprints that dotted an iPhone 1 are replaced by makeup staining an iPhone 11. I no longer steal my mother’s phone to investigate but instead pick up my own. Times have changed, technology has evolved, and I have grown up amid everything.