Put your phone away, I tell myself, too many times a day.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, you’re missing the moment.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, talk to the mom beside you on the bleachers.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, remembering the laughter is more important than capturing the moment in a snapshot.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, Facebook and Instagram will wait for you.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, they’re watching and learning from your actions.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, these children won’t be eager to hold your hand forever.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, rainy afternoons are for making cookies.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, you don’t live in your own little world.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, bedtimes stories can’t wait.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, they’re thinking big thoughts and you don’t want to miss them.

Put your phone away, I tell myself, some day you’ll wish it was ringing.