It’s hard to believe, but we truly are living in the future. A few decades ago, many technological advancements we now take for granted were nothing more than science fiction. From smartphones to self-driving cars, we have seen a rapid acceleration in technological development that has changed how we live, work, and communicate.
As I reflect on my grandfather’s life, it’s clear to me just how much technology has changed over a single lifetime. My grandfather enlisted in World War II as a signaller, primarily using radio communication systems, both telegraph and telephone, to communicate with his fellow soldiers. Yet, even as he grew older, he was still exploring the latest technology, using video calls and the internet to stay connected with his family.
I also have fond memories of my childhood when my family got our first home computer, a PC running DOS. I remember spending hours playing 2D games like Police Quest, learning the ins and outs of basic command prompts and discovering my interest in technology. The contrast between my grandfather’s experience during the war and my experience growing up with a home computer highlights how much technology has progressed in just a few decades.
As we look ahead to the future, it’s clear that technology will continue to change rapidly. Our children and grandchildren will live in a very different world when they’re my age, and fingers crossed, we will use technology for positive actions to reverse the negative environmental impact that humans have produced since the industrial revolution. One thing is for sure, technology will be an integral part of the lives of future generations, just as it has been for us.
We’re living in an exciting time where technology is advancing faster than ever, and it’s fascinating to think about how much it has changed throughout just one lifetime. These advancements have improved our ability to stay connected, learn, and stay safe, and technology is essential for future positive actions. Rapid technological advances mean that the future is always unknown, but we are sure it will be full of opportunities and challenges.