| Dear readers, The tech rumor mill is abuzz with the news that the much anticipated iPhone 5 will feature a new type of connector. The ubiquitous 30-pin connector introduced in 2003 will be replaced by a new 19-pin connector. It will be a boon for accessory makers and a bust to just about everyone else who will discover yet another incompatible device in their collection. It seems that we have an overdose of digital connections: Hundreds at Linkedin and Facebook, an average 4.4 connected devices per person in the US, and multiple always-on Internet connections. With the 9th of Av behind us, as we begin the long stretch towards the High Holidays, it's time to take stock of our personal connections. Are they helping us grow or are they just a distraction and noise? Are we putting effort into the connections that matter most: our spouses, children, parents, and G-d? Perhaps Apple has the right idea. Instead of adding more connections we might want to focus on creating, maintaining and cultivating meaningful ones. Those 11 extra pins? Unnecessary and distracting. Now, if you'll give me a minute, my sister is calling to confirm our lunch date... Moshe Rosenberg
Chabad.org | 
