Technology is a compulsive and addictive way to live. Verbal

Opening Scene

The room is softly illuminated by the glow of a desk lamp, casting a cozy and reflective atmosphere. Outside, the city is quiet, its rhythm slowing as evening approaches. Jack sits at the table, his phone in hand, but his gaze is distant, lost in thought. Jeeny stands near the window, watching the world outside, her posture calm yet introspective. The air feels still, almost as if a deeper conversation is waiting to unfold.

Host: After a few moments, Jeeny turns, her voice soft but steady, breaking the silence.

Jeeny: “I came across a quote by Rick Pitino that really caught my attention. He said, ‘Technology is a compulsive and addictive way to live. Verbal communication cannot be lost because of a lack of skill. The ability to listen and learn is key to mastering the art of communication. If you don’t use your verbal skills and networking, it will disappear rapidly. Use technology wisely.’ It made me think about how much we rely on technology in our lives today, and how that reliance can impact our ability to truly connect with others. What do you think?”

Jack: “That’s a powerful thought. We’re so connected through technology, but at the same time, it feels like we’re becoming more disconnected in some ways. We can text, email, or message people anytime, but there’s something about verbal communication that’s irreplaceable — the ability to have a real conversation, to truly listen and engage with someone. Pitino is right — if we don’t keep using our verbal communication skills, we risk losing them.”

Jeeny: “Exactly. Technology is amazing, but it can easily become a crutch if we rely on it too much. The way we interact with others is changing, and while technology allows us to communicate across distances, it can also make us lazy in how we relate to people. It’s easier to send a quick message than to pick up the phone or have an in-person conversation, but in doing so, we miss out on the nuances of human connection — the tone, the body language, the depth of the interaction.”

Jack: “And that’s the part I think we’re losing — the depth of communication. With texting and social media, we can communicate quickly, but how much are we really learning about the other person? How much are we truly listening? Verbal communication is an art that requires focus and empathy. When we stop using it as much, we lose the ability to really connect, and that affects not only our relationships but also our professional networks.”

Host: The conversation begins to deepen as they reflect on the changing nature of communication. Jack sets his phone down, his expression thoughtful, while Jeeny walks over to the table, sitting across from him. Her voice steady as she continues.

Jeeny: “It’s almost like we’re sacrificing the quality of our interactions for the convenience of technology. And while technology isn’t inherently bad, it’s about balance. If we don’t consciously put in the effort to have face-to-face conversations, or at least pick up the phone, we lose something important. We need to be able to listen, to engage with people on a deeper level, and that requires active effort.”

Jack: “Yes, exactly. And technology, when used wisely, can be a great tool. It can help us stay connected, share information, and even help in business or networking. But if we let it replace our genuine interactions, we lose the essence of communication — the ability to connect, to understand each other, and to build real relationships. Pitino’s point about verbal skills and networking is so important. These are the skills that allow us to navigate the world and build meaningful connections, but they don’t come naturally if we stop practicing them.”

Jeeny: “And that’s the risk, isn’t it? If we don’t use our verbal skills, if we don’t keep engaging with others face-to-face or over the phone, we risk losing those authentic conversations. And once those skills fade, it’s hard to get them back. Technology might allow us to communicate, but it doesn’t replace the value of truly listening to someone, understanding their emotions, and being present in the conversation.”

Jack: “Exactly. It’s about balance — using technology to enhance our lives, but not letting it take over how we communicate. Verbal communication, the ability to listen and respond thoughtfully, is a skill we can’t afford to lose. That’s the kind of connection that builds strong relationships, whether in business or in personal life.”

Host: The room feels quieter now, as if the weight of their conversation has settled between them. The world outside continues its rhythm, but inside, Jack and Jeeny share a realization: the power of technology should be balanced with the art of true communication. The ability to listen, to speak thoughtfully, and to engage deeply is an essential skill that technology cannot replace. In a world increasingly driven by convenience, the value of verbal communication remains as vital as ever.

Jeeny: “So maybe the key is being mindful — using technology wisely, but not allowing it to replace the deep, meaningful connections we make through verbal communication. If we stop practicing those skills, we risk losing a part of what makes us human.”

Jack: “Exactly. We need to make sure that the ease of technology doesn’t lead to the erosion of real, face-to-face interaction. Verbal communication, active listening, and genuine engagement are the foundations of lasting relationships — and those can’t be replaced by a screen.”

Host: As the evening continues, the conversation fades into quiet reflection. Jack and Jeeny are left with the understanding that while technology has its place, it is the real human connections — the conversations, the listening, and the sharing of ideas — that are the heart of meaningful communication. And it’s in nurturing these skills that we ensure our relationships remain strong and authentic.