The Doorbell
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5CznoAW2k1I&t=15s
What do you feel when the doorbell rings, and you're not expecting anyone? For me, I get a little jumpy, not sure who it is or what they want. I don't remember when the feelings changed from excitement to more caution when someone appeared at my door. I only know now I have more uneasy feelings than enthusiastic ones. When I do look out my side pane, and it's someone I know, for the most part, I'm happy to see them. I might be a little embarrassed if my house or I don't look presentable, but I'm still glad a friend dropped in.
These days people don't ring my bill if they plan on staying long, and they usually come to drop something off or discuss something for a few minutes.
The video above contrasts today's and yesterday’s attitude toward answering the door. Today many people hate answering the doorbell and don't want unwarranted company. What Changed? I've pondered this question and came up with a few things.
1. Schedules- In many homes, both parents work, and the children have a full schedule with classes, sports, and extra-curriculum activities. Everyone is busy doing life, which is good, but it leaves little room for relaxing at home with friends and extended family.
2. Fear and anxiety- Media, television, movies, etc., has programmed society that the world is terrible with more evil people than good. Children are not allowed to play outside anymore for fear of evil. Ulterior motives are embedded in people, which has led to erected barriers in our minds and actions.
3. Laziness and selfishness- Some people don't want to be bothered. Opening the front door could take time away from personal activities and tv bingeing.
4. Privacy- We all need our privacy. Some people live very private lives and want to keep their lives confidential; others run to privacy because of a lack of trust. If a person has been hurt and wounded in past relationships, it's hard to open those doors again. It's easier to remain within the confines of privacy and boundaries than to open up to new experiences with new friends.
5. Social awkwardness- With the rise of social media, some people find it difficult to communicate face to face. Social media is much easier to hang out on an emotional level that requires little communication, commitment, and effort at building relationships.
Answering the doorbell with a smile and open heart takes effort and a willingness to put aside ourselves and the personal plans we made in our privacy. The issue is not answering the doorbell because these days it hardly rings, but when it does, let's check our heart and attitude before we open the door.