Heads in the Sand?

My wonderful wife got me something for Christmas, that I've been wanting and dreaming about for over 2 years. Some of you may not think it's very romantic to send a web-link to your significant other when asked what you want for Christmas, but I'm a practical guy. So that's what I did.

And this is what she bought me.

Yes, the TV is new (and 40" of pure awesomeness) but I'm talking about the headphones. Astro A30 wireless headphones to be exact. They are sweet music to my ears, literally. And to Andi's as well. You see, as good as the headphones are at reproducing music, movies and video game soundtracks at ear splitting (and probably damage causing) levels, it what they don't do that's just as important. The don't let anyone other than me experience the joy!

Last night is a prime example, after playing some Rock Band with the boys, I plugged in the headphones and proceeded to rock out by myself. 4 minutes into Avenged Sevenfold's Afterlife, Andi comes into the living room and gives me "the look". You see, the headphones are good at their job, maybe too good. As good as they music sounded, they kept me from hearing her calling me in to help get the kids in bed.

And that got me to thinking, is technology a good thing or  a bad thing. Sure there are benefits, but how often are we disconnecting ourselves from the rest of the world because of it?

Having and iPad or DROID with lot's of information, dozens of versions of the Bible, and volumes of reference material at your fingertips is great. Getting lost watching You Tube for hours on end while neglecting other duties isn't.

So, what are your thoughts? Technology good or bad?