They Can't Phone Home

Today I received a depressing letter. The letter was from my son's post-high school yeshiva. It was not a list of the new exciting strategies and programs that had been implemented (what was I thinking?). It was a ban against owning a cell phone, ipod, internet capable device, etc. It was not a nice letter, but a harsh letter. It really turned me off. I am starting to think that I am G-d's agent in delivering common sense to ultra religious institutions, as I seem to be a magnet for the ones with the worst communication. I am depressed, not because of technological restrictions. I myself keep dreaming of the day that like Anne Hathaway in the Devil Wears Prada, I can toss my blackberry into a pond. I am depressed because a cell phone would provide my son with a sense of independence to get around NYC and communication with his parents, siblings, relatives, friends while living in NY. We have been told that 16 phones will be installed for use in the yeshiva. Now, I'm not much of a mathematician, but I'm trying to imagine 160 boys all using 16 phones (even 1/2 of them) in a 30-minute period. I imagine something like the 2 minute call allowed while incarcirated. I am wondering if when he is outside of the secure yeshiva hallways, the thugs on the subways will be kind enough to lend them theirs. Maybe he'll get lucky and find a pay phone from 1964. You also have to realize that the boys attending these schools are WANTING to be there. These are typically not your bar-hoping, rule-breaking, rebels....until now. I wish they had as many hygene rules as they have technoligical rules, like "there will absolutely be no dirty laundry, flatulence, belching, burping, nose picking or body odor allowed at the yeshiva." I think rules are good in moderation and loving direction can be motivating. I think an all or none attitude can be dangerous. We have control in government, work place, religion, etc. I wonder where this is all going? Well, I hope the freedom from the techno world will be peacful. I have to say, I am a bit jealous. I will keep an open mind about this, but one thing I am sure of....the more rules, the more violations.  Technology has a way of creeping into the tightest of restrictions, no matter the age. Internet and cell dangers can be found by those who want them, no matter what the restrictions. I am also sure that This rule WILL be violated. Sooner than later.

Update: Well, it seem that I have a purpose....Yeshiva Reformer. The rabbi from the school called to make sure "I was OK." He is reconsidering the strict policy and will even provide my son with a phone when he is away from the school. He was very concerned (and kind) to make sure that we were OK. It is times like these that I realize there is a grand plan.