The Cell phone: then and now

During our school and college days, the cell phone was something we MUST have with us at all times, including the shit time (literally).
The basic, gareeb models we then had, the most attractive feature of which was probably its built-in torch was invaluable to us. SMS tone ringing 24X7. Phone calls were rare and if the phone wouldn't shut up after a couple of rings, know that it is from home.
Now, when the cell phone is a super sleek, PDA gadget, it has become something you HAVE to carry with yourself at all times- including (you grudgingly tell people) the shit time.
Real responsibilities, which would flutter around at a vaguely visible distance have suddenly begun to settle down rather heavily on our shoulders, and put forth a hundred reasons why we can't just get up and leave like earlier times, on our whims and fancies. There are chains binding the hands and feet- imaginary ones no doubt, but stronger the iron ones so you really can't break them.

Among the clasps of deadlines, appointments, and commitments, there is another one- seemingly inconsequential but when you come to think of it, more binding than the others. For when you take the day off, the cell phone is what will keep you bound to your desk in your cubicle at work.

In those days, the only you wanted was for someone to call, text or even buzz once. Now, all you want is for the phone to shut up so you can enjoy your precious holiday in peace.

Then, you would never dream of switching off your cell phone. Now, it is what you dream of most of the time.

Then, you thought you had all the freedom only because you could talk to your friends (including boys) at any time of the day or night.
Now, you feel you are free when you switch off your cell phone and toss it god-knows-where while you take a break from work.