Yep. They've lost their master grip on the marketplace; they face a formidable challenge from the Pnimi.
The Pnimi?
Does it feel like you blinked and missed the newest tech toy?
Actually, “Pnimi” is a [Hebrew] Chassidic term, and it refers to a person who is totally invested in what he/she is doing.
A Pnimi is always - in his entirety - where he is. Period.
It’s become harder than ever to be a Pnimi; we have so many distractions screaming for our attention i.e. cell phones ringing, texts buzzing, e-mails-at-our-fingertips.
That’s why I’ve been working on my Blackberry addiction.
In fact, I recently took a major step forward in my therapy: I’ve de-activated my little red notifier light.
[Note for non-Blackberry types: There’s a little light that flashes when you have new e-mail]
Here’s why: When I meet with someone, I’m polite enough not to respond to calls or e-mails. However, I’ll usually keep my Blackberry in front of me, just to prevent withdrawal symptoms.
So, when the little red light begins to flash, I notice. And from that moment on, the simple knowledge that I have waiting e-mail subtly gnaws at my brain. It’ll only take a tiny part of my consciousness, but that’s too much; when I’m having a conversation with someone, I need to be TOTALLY there.
I need to be a Pnimi.
So I've summoned the courage to de-activate. Now, I can actually speak with someone, and remain OBLIVIOUS as to whether e-mail awaits me. It may sound funny to you non-addicts, but let me ask you:
Do you ever surf the net while you’re having a phone conversation?
How about allowing your mind to wander afield while you’re speaking with a loved one?
Then this is for you too.
When we’re committing to a relationship - with G-d or with each other – we need to commit wholly.
When we’re wrapped up in ourselves, we can’t fully give of ourselves to others. On the other hand, when we’re surrendered to a higher objective or ideal (like a relationship), when we’re liberated from our own self-centeredness, then we’re free to give of ourselves in a genuine sense.
So, the next time you enter into a conversation with G-d or a loved one, take a moment to shut down the distractions; because In the marketplace of meaning, the Pnimi wins every time.
ב"ה