“Mama, Put the Phone Away”

A Poem by Maria Tempany

“Mama, put the phone away”- words I was truly mortified to hear from the mouth of my two year old son. I know I’m not the only one guilty of this (at least I hope I’m not). Hopefully this poem might resonate with some of you and maybe we can all try some phone-free time together!!

“I got a rude awakening when
My son said to me today
With a look so earnest in his eyes
“Mama, put the phone away”

I was rooted to that very spot
When, Yet again, he said
“Mama, put it down, right over there.
Come play with me instead.”

A sense of shame engulfed me.
And all at once I knew
How right he really truly was
Despite his ripe old age of two.

As instructed, down I got,
To play with my sweet boy.
To dissipate that shame I felt ,
And replace it with pure joy.

What affirmations we may seek,
Behind these screens we all possess.
Can often be a source of pain,
Upset and much distress.

Did anybody like my post?
A follow? Or a share?
Quite frankly and perhaps he’s right
My son really doesn’t care.

Of course all these communities
Have an important role to play.
Especially in the times we’re in
With those we love at bay.

But for me this simple statement
From the centre of my world.
Struck a cord so painfully
I felt compelled to share this word.

So, one and all, why don’t we try
To “put the phones away”.
Not all the time, just now and then.
And, ever present, try to stay. “

Follow Maria Tempany on Instagram @therhymingone