NBC’s “Nightly News” concluded one recent evening with a piece suggesting that kids are spending too much time on phones and social media. Ya think?

A social media darling wept into her device claiming that “it’s not real!” and that “I took over 100 (selfies) to make sure (her) stomach looked right … .” Horrible!

Even more shocking was a (straight-faced) psychologist claiming that “there’s nothing like face-to-face social interaction” vs., presumably, living or attempting to find a life on smartphones and Facebook.

We hosted a Halloween party with our grandkids. These opportunities are rare anymore as they enter their teen years. We understand, and covet these rare moments.

After some festive activities that my wife scheduled, including bobbing for apples out in the cold, our party was rolling along. Later, we all sat at the table over munchies. To my delight, conversation ensued.

I instigated a word game. The category: “sports cities.” I’d say, “Saints” and the answer would be “What is New Orleans?” – like “Jeopardy.”

This went on with great amusement until I noticed one grandson using his phone to devise his questions. “Elvis Presley’s middle name?” asks he. ” ‘What is Aaron?,’ bub – now put that phone away!” This lad’s a good student, and I love him. But I lament the way these devices are used as an alternative to creative thought.

Three nights later, we were all together at a football party. I was describing a hilarious Geico commercial that concludes with Peter Pan singing “You Make Me Feel So Young.” The same lad said, “Ya mean this one, Gramp?” as we all watched said commercial together on his phone.

Smartphones. Social media. I get it. But “It Makes Me Feel So Old” …

Buddy Doyle

Gardiner