Okay, so the question here is, “Why do I want a phone on this trip?” Well, the reason why I think I should have a phone during this trek across the county is that it would be nice to contact friends or family every once in a while, and my mom and I are making an Instagram account based on this trip.
The other question is, “Why the hell are my parents so uptight?” My parents were planning on not getting me a phone until I was in my freshman year of high school, and while I am biking across the country I am technically a freshman in high school, so why not let me have a phone?!? I just asked my mom again why I can’t have a phone, and she said, “It rots your brains.”
The truth is, I (kind of) already have a phone, which my parents didn’t actually allow. My friend gave me his old iPhone 4, and then my brother got a new phone and gave me his old iPhone SE, which is the smaller version of the iPhone 6. Because it’s not activated, it doesn’t even make calls, but, when connected to wifi, I can text and play certain games. Even so, I am barely allowed to use it. On the trip, we will rarely be connected to wifi, so this “phone” won’t function at all unless, of course, my parents actually activate the phone and get me a number.
The one big reason why I feel like I need a phone is that all of my friends have phones, and every time I need to call my parents, instead of pulling out my phone and calling my mom, I have to ask my friends to borrow their phones to make the call. That’s another reason why I want a phone, not just to play games. Well, sometimes I want to do that, but really all I want is to easily communicate with my parents and friends.
My parents have never let me have a phone. I am 15 years old, and I am the last of my friends not to have one. What is your opinion? Please write it in the comments section below.
Oakley: I don’t think you should have a phone. It rots your brains.
Well Oakley in all honestly I feel for you. Since all kids seem to get phones at a very young age it must be challenging to be the one kid without a phone. Your parents are so cool in so many other ways though they kind of make up for that one major downfall.
So, I believe you SHOULD be allowed to bring your phone along since you’d probably get homesick. Most of your friends are in Maine and being stuck with your mom the whole way is going to drive you crazy (my mother drives me crazy). Personally, sometimes everyone is in need of a distraction, or break. Especially if you’re stuck with a family member for who knows how long. Yes, you’ll be able to see and experience much of your trip but after a long day, it is nice to wind down with some music or a call with some friends so you can tell them about your day, and what you’ve done. Plus like it isn’t gonna be like you, riding your bike, and on your phone at the same time. Your mom says that you’re on it “all the time.” Probably because you’ve only had limited access to one (your mom’s) and that is how you, and many of your friends contact each other. By messaging or Instagram. But, that is just my opinion.
How about waiting until you make the trip and having that to look forward to when you return? Kind of think it would be a distraction while you are on your wild adventure.
I’m kind of with you, Oaks. I think on this trip for safety reasons it would be good. Phones now also have excellent cameras. With Find Friends, people (mom and dad) can see exactly where you are. Why not compromise? You’re allowed the phone for 1 hr/day. If you’re responsible on the trip and play by the rules, you can negotiate upon your return… Besides, if you’re anything like my kids we’re, you’ll drop it in water within the first week😏
I read your blog on my cell phone. But it would be nice to not be addicted.
I think you should have a phone, but I’m not your mom. She seems to have done an excellent job raising you all so far.
A phone. Yup, hard question.
Are you ready to not use it ALL THE TIME? Are you willing to put it away when mom ask you to? If yes, the yes!
Oakley! How Awesome to be the last one without a phone. So great not to be one of the herd!
Sarcastic or not, this is a great comment!
Sorry Oakley -I have to agree… it rots your brain!!!
Take pictures with your heart- be in touch with what is right in front of you—- and if you miss your friends- In The evening – sit down and write them a letter – tell your friends in advance what post offices you will stop at and have them write u general delivery. You’ve got this—- you -of all the amazing kids I know -absolutely with out a shadow of a doubt- do not NEED a phone.
If you want a luxury item- opt for a hotel every now and then — running water and a real mattress is so much better than a silly time wasting game or occasional chat!!!
I know this isn’t the answer you want but I truly believe you will enjoy yourself so much more- learn so much more- and connect so much better without a phone!!!!
Strictly for safety reasons I think you should both carry cell phones and I think the should be on different systems for maximum coverage in case of emergencies.
How you are allowed to use it other than for an emergency is between you and your parents.