Pastor Ken
The enduring effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have profoundly influenced human health and longevity on a global scale. We’ve had to make significant lifestyle modifications and embrace new modes of social interaction. The future remains uncertain as we anticipate potential shifts in our societies and cultures.
I recently had a standard vision check to update my prescription. During my last visit to the optometrist clinic, I underwent a series of examinations, then sat on a raised chair in front of a machine, where I viewed letters of varying sizes on a screen. The doctor tested different lenses to determine the most suitable ones for me. Subsequently, a new glasses prescription was issued.
Upon my arrival at the clinic this time, I was attended to by a single technician who conducted basic examinations using a variety of instruments. As I sat in the high chair, it became apparent that the optometrist was not physically present. Instead, she greeted me via video call and remotely adjusted the lens power while controlling the equipment. The seamless interaction made it feel as though she was in the room with me. Following the procedure, the technician facilitated a consultation with an off-site doctor, who reviewed the data and discussed with me through the internet, and ultimately issued a prescription for glasses.
During my conversation with the technician, I discovered that remote eye examinations are increasingly popular, especially in small, remote communities. This method is highly beneficial when medical resources are scarce, as it allows one doctor to attend to patients over a wider geographic area, leading to improved efficiency for both healthcare providers and patients. Many doctors now advertise remote consultation and diagnosis services on their information pages, and the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to accelerate the growth of such services.
The education sector is also seeing a rise in online arrangements. For subjects like liberal arts that don’t require specialized equipment, teachers and students can engage in discussions from anywhere. Some colleges are moving towards online teaching to cut costs, while others are extending their reach to different states and countries. The future of higher education holds many opportunities.
During the pandemic, numerous Christian ministries had to close their church buildings, leading churches to utilize the internet for worship services. Despite some resistance to online worship, many find it more convenient than in-person attendance. Post-pandemic, churches are exploring ways to enhance their online ministries by offering classes, seminars, and various meetings virtually. Live broadcasts of services are also being maintained for those unable to physically attend, making this shift to online platforms the new standard in church operations. Nevertheless, the concept articulated by futurist John Naisbitt in his 1982 book Megatrends about the future can’t discount the importance of “High tech High touch” (his 1999 book with this title). Despite living in a highly technological age, there remains a deep-seated desire for meaningful physical connections. Human beings crave in-person interactions as a fundamental aspect of finding purpose and fulfillment in life. While advancements in technology may one day enable the transmission of senses and emotions over long distances, the unpredictable element of individuality that comes with physical contact is irreplaceable. It is unlikely that humans will relinquish this unique aspect of connection to machines, as it is integral to our existence and essence as social beings.
