The digital age has made it easier than ever to become connected with others, whether it be close in proximity or halfway across the planet. No matter where they are located, a simple message can be sent in seconds. What could go wrong?

Human interaction and the way we view others has seemed to be negatively impacted through the development of technology. Instead of talking in person and meeting more “organically,” a sentient being has turned into a tinder swipe right, with their worth being centered around their attractiveness and first profile picture. The emotions attached to the initial instance of wanting to know more about a person has become obsolete and the lust associated with those same feelings is overpowered due to the numb distance of an LED screen.

Yet, most young adults complain about how they cannot find love. It’s an enigma to why romance is seemingly dead, even though a “quickie” is the new pick-up line. People type “lol” or “haha” with an emotionless expression, waiting for a response that will be just as fake. Interpersonal communication between others has become a game of who can do it the least, all while being glued to their phone when it does happen, because a swipe left is worse than fostering a friendship.

But it is time for us to take back what we have given to this fictional reality and reclaim the way we talk to each other. The distance between our screens leaves too much to the imagination so when talking face-to-face, we become lost. It is time to find our way back to actually laughing; tear jerking, belly laughing and retain the relationships created through in-person interactions.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Rams.