History can come to life thanks to technology

Technology helps make our life easier. Its impact has been remarkable and it is constantly evolving. My father recently passed away and I was amazed at the amount of technology that came into play not only now, but during his lifetime.

When my Dad was born, only 35 percent of American dwellings had electricity. Indoor plumbing, washing machines, television and refrigerators were all technological marvels. The primary influence of technology was raising the standard of living: Infant morality rates fell, epidemic diseases were reduced and everyone lived healthier and easier lives.

It was an era when details were memorized and family stories were passed down from generation to generation. Today, our stories are disappearing as we use technology to minimize conversations with abbreviated text messages and e-mails limited in detail. Our colorful family stories are dwindling.

Yet, today’s technology did afford instant communication during services and events. We were able to e-mail relatives across the country to keep them informed of details. We sent text messages locally to confirm arrangements, used our the cell phone to understand siblings’ wishes and searched the Internet for memorable songs, psalms and passages.

My Dad was well-decorated during World War II, being part of the 82nd Airborne Division, and was present in many of our nation’s significant battles. Archived information via family trees allowed us to recreate his distinctive tour and explain its significance to the younger generation. Thanks to historical movies such as “The Bridge Too Far” we could share the past with re-enactments and documentaries. Normandy, D-day and The Battle of the Bulge all came to life for the grandchildren — with the use of technology.

The kids also used their iPods to find favorite songs and download the oldies to gain more of an understanding. Even I was surprised when the bus we rented could accommodate the playing of this new device. Today’s technology allowed us to relive the past.

The use of electronics also allowed us to save and cherish these memories. Video and audio recordings of the playing of taps and military gun salute captured special memories for family unable to attend. There were even some fantastic reproductions of Dad’s regiment photo from World War II.

But, here is where an important reminder came quite unexpectedly.

We displayed the original during the service and were startled to discover that during the restoration, some of the handwritten notes and signatures were removed. Among the missing were crosses that had been placed on the foreheads and hearts of many – signifying their passing in combat. It was a significant reminder of how very important our human touch really is in this digital age.

The contribution of technology benefits modern life in many ways. At work, it enables us to produce more with less. At home, it helps with our daily chores. In school, it improves our learning. Nevertheless, electronic messages can never replace the spoken word and family stories can never be replaced — only reproduced.

As the holidays approach, we will store our memories with the use of technology. But first, we must preserve the human touch.