Cellphone or Security Blanket ?
Written by Mala Raj   
Friday, 18 April 2008
Interesting to ponder how the cellphone has gone miles beyond the 'communication instrument'  that it really is...
How many times have we unconsciously patted our pockets when leaving home - not so much for wallets or keys, but for the cellphone! How many times have we made the trip back home even if we have travelled a couple of miles, to pick up the forgotten cellphone...Compare it to the number of times you went back for your wallet. Easier to borrow a few notes from a collaeague at work. But a WHOLE DAY without a cellphone. No SIR!

Nothing quite matches the feeling of helplessness and insecurity when the mobile goes on the blink! Would I have missed important calls? Would someone have messaged me? And more importantly - I just HAVE to call someone now and his number is stored on my on-the-blink mobile. Suddenly, I am off the face of the earth. I am incommunicado.

How on earth did people reach other in the days before cellphones?

The little friend becomes a source of comfort in unfamiliar places. Waiting at a lonely spot for a bus or cab at night? Pretend you are talking (or actually talk) on your cellphone - suddenly there is this security bubble around you. You are not alone - you are in touch with someone!

Walk into a party where you know no one but the host ? No need to be ill at ease! Grab an unobtrusive spot - whisper sweet nothings on your cell to no one in particular. Who can label you a wallflower after that!

Come to think of it, when we talk of brands closest to our hearts, shouldn't the cellphone be right up there?