The New Frontier 

To Boldly Go . . .

by Lisa Burwell

There are certain stages in life that are pivotal turning points where you can just feel that there is no turning back. But I’ve never witnessed a collective and global sea change like we are currently experiencing. Technology and innovation are leading us where no man has gone before, and it’s epic. This, in addition to the unrest in global politics and the disappearance of civility, makes me wonder what the new frontier will be like ten years from now.

The conveniences of technology always seem good in theory—and usually in application—but only time will be the judge and jury. The social marketing platforms of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and so on were and are great connectors—until they’re not. Right? We overshared and overshared, and then we didn’t want anyone to know anything about us. As the saying goes, “It’s complicated.” We’re living in a world where it’s a retro concept to make a phone call, send a handwritten note, or ask someone you find attractive or interesting out on a date. I consider myself fortunate that my childhood occurred before technology took over.

Even the rules of dating have dramatically changed. As I watch the young people in my life meander through the new dating scene, I get a glimpse of what the new dance is all about, and it leaves me feeling sad and perplexed. I prefer the old ways. Sitting in the library at college and noticing someone noticing me was such a thrill, and then meeting and commencing the courting process was exciting and full of joy. Now I’m told this just doesn’t happen. I know; I’m dating myself here (no pun intended).

And does anyone else feel as though emojis are the modern-day hieroglyphics or cave drawings? Do we really not have enough time to tell someone that we love them or that we’re happy for them when a heart and smiling face will do?

It astounds me what vision and prophetic insight the creators and writers of television shows from the 1960s had. We’re practically living in The Twilight Zone, Star Trek, and The Jetsons—or at least, we’re getting ready to see much of it realized, with driverless and flying automobiles, lifelike robots like the astounding Sophia created by Hanson Robotics, and much more to come in our near future. I’m very excited to present VIE’s inaugural Travel & Tech Issue with a feature by publisher Gerald Burwell, “Keeping Up with the Jetsons: From the Highways to the Skyways,” which is an insightful and informative read. Additionally, “Where the Figayou?” by Tori Phelps showcases a new app that gets people using their mobile devices to meet up and connect. Really connect. What a concept!

As much as I love many of the conveniences brought about by modern technology, in my heart and mind, I seem to crave all things retro and a return to glamour, goodness, and simplicity. I’m sure I am only remembering the good parts of a bygone time, but it doesn’t hurt to try and preserve a connection to civility and elegance whenever possible.

I will welcome the day when, in the words of Huey Lewis, “It’s hip to be square” again!

To Life!

—Lisa Marie

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