Today, we live in this world controlled by cyberspace, the web, and ultimately, our phones. Our homework is online, we're always plugged in, let's face it; we're addicted. It's just the change of the times. Maybe the next era will be about hovercrafts or jetpacks, but right now, our time is about the Internet.

Despite all the scrutiny, how we should change and take a break, I'm actually quite thankful for the Internet. I do agree, I don't think you need to be "on the grid" all the time, but I wanted to share how I felt about the whole topic.

1. Connection
When I was younger, my father traveled all the time. He'd be gone for long weekends, or even weeks, and typically, I'd miss him very much. I could always count on his emails, about where he was and what he was doing, and usually a photo was included. The Internet was my way to stay close to him while he was thousands of miles from home.

2. Online Shopping
I think this one describes itself. I'm hooked. Aren't you? The ease of online shopping is perfect. I love fantasizing about all of the stuff I can't buy right now.  

3. Creativity
The Internet gave me The Odyssey, which gives me a creative outlet in writing. There are plenty of websites out there allowing all of us to create, and make whatever we want. You can essentially design everything you want on the Internet. Personally, I love making playlists on 8Tracks, hopeful that someone out there enjoys my random music taste!

4. Family
I have almost 40 cousins all over the United States. How do we stay connected? On Facebook, of course! The Internet provided us with an easy way to discuss the gift we gave to our grandparents for their 60th anniversary over Thanksgiving. Plus, it allows us to be super nosy and always up to date with each others lives. 

5. Unanswered Questions
How old is Drake? How long are horses pregnant? Where is the closest IHOP? I know that going through my Google search history is the easiest way to get confused as to what goes on inside my brain. But the Internet always has an answer to my odd questions. Which is why I keep coming back. 

6. Music
I think this one relatively explains itself. The Internet distributes music like no other platform. I have artists, songs and entire albums accessible at my fingertips.

7. Netflix
Again. Explains itself. My boredom has been forever taken care of by one website. I become so invested in shows as I binge watch them and forget about the real world until they're finished. I also love the selection; I've watched things I never would have imagined just because it was there! 

8. Navigation
I am never lost. The Internet recognizes me as a little blue dot, which I'm totally okay with. Honestly, I'm not sure what people did before. Did they simply accept  getting lost? Did they actually stop to ask for directions? I'm thankful I live in a generation where I can become un-lost 99 percent of the time.

9. Research
Where is the best place to eat around here? Do I like this black dress from this website, or this tan one from that one? Should we stay at this hotel in Florida or that one? The Internet provides so many options and information about places. People are willing to share their experiences, so essentially, you're never walking into something without knowing what to expect. I like this. 

I wouldn't say I'm addicted, especially because now in college I have to do homework online, but I definitely do enjoy the use of the Internet and I am so thankful someone thought of it. Also, remember to take a break! Go outside, go for a walk, take a nap, maybe do all of the above. The Internet is great, but more of the world exists apart from a computer screen.