In order to better focus on serving my family and fulfilling my duties without distractions, I have eliminated internet in the home. I will have opportunity for infrequent access to internet elsewhere at least monthly or every two weeks. If your email requires a more urgent response, I would humbly request you to call me personally or to send me a letter in the mail. If you would be so kind, please offer a prayer for me upon receiving this message!  

I received this "auto response" in my inbox today.


I think for some people this wouldn't be a bad move. Probably about the same % of the population that have to completely abstain from alcohol. That is what I'd compare it to. For those who should do this, they really need to.

But so many people need the Internet for work, communication, shopping, etc. so for this group, the only option is to block sites that suck up too much time and cause too many distractions, plus continually work on self-discipline.

I am well aware of people that need to give up the Internet cold turkey: those who ignore their family, spend hours watching videos, playing games (both Baby Boomer-friendly casual games, as well as the hundreds of popular games aimed at younger players). There are a million ways to waste time online, and they all require an Internet connection, that is true.

And a lot of people do have a problem -- as in, a literal addiction.

Sad world: