Phone Etiquette While on a date...

Between your friends, social networks, and apps; it seems almost impossible for people to NOT get on their phones these days. (we are all guilty of it) All of this is completely normal when you are by yourself or with friends, but what is the proper etiquette now-a-days for when you are on a date?

Is it supposed to be accepted that someone will be texting, social networking, etc. regularly throughout the date.. or is it still common knowledge that it is somewhat rude to be doing that? I mean.. when it happens to me- it makes me feel as though that person would rather be elsewhere, that their time could be better spent with other people, or god forbid they "just aren't that into me." Should the focus not be on each other? I mean I get that there may be more "appropriate" times to check your phone while on a date (when one of you go to the bathroom) however, doing it often in front of the person is a bit rude- is it not?

I am a very social person... and I do LOVE LOVE LOVE to check my Facebook, Twitter, etc. But when I am on a date I am pretty respectful about not being on my phone because I am there to get to know the person I'm on a date with.  If you are texting regularly (or appear to be) it just seems a bit shady and disrespectful to the person you are with. Friends will still be there in a few hours, Facebook and Twitter are not going anywhere and the people "following" you will not hate you if you don't update them every 10 minutes.

Also- does good phone etiquette only apply for the first date? All dates? At what point is it ok? Or isn't it at all?

*I don't really care about this as much if you are out together with a group of other people... it's bound to happen that everyone will be off and on their phones throughout the evening.. but mostly wondering what the rule is these days when on a date with just you and that person....

Please share your thoughts.. I'm interested to see what your opinion is on this.

Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile.- Someday I will know what this means :)

I found this quote/passage by Bob Marley and fell in love with it.

"Only once in your life, I truly believe, you find someone who can completely turn your world around. You tell them things that you’ve never shared with another soul and they absorb everything you say and actually want to hear more. You share hopes for the future, dreams that will never come true, goals that were never achieved and the many disappointments life has thrown at you. When something wonderful happens, you can’t wait to tell them about it, knowing they will share in your excitement. They are not embarrassed to cry with you when you are hurting or laugh with you when you make a fool of yourself. Never do they hurt your feelings or make you feel like you are not good enough, but rather they build you up and show you the things about yourself that make you special and even beautiful. There is never any pressure, jealousy or competition but only a quiet calmness when they are around. You can be yourself and not worry about what they will think of you because they love you for who you are. The things that seem insignificant to most people such as a note, song or walk become invaluable treasures kept safe in your heart to cherish forever. Memories of your childhood come back and are so clear and vivid it’s like being young again. Colours seem brighter and more brilliant. Laughter seems part of daily life where before it was infrequent or didn’t exist at all. A phone call or two during the day helps to get you through a long day’s work and always brings a smile to your face. In their presence, there’s no need for continuous conversation, but you find you’re quite content in just having them nearby. Things that never interested you before become fascinating because you know they are important to this person who is so special to you. You think of this person on every occasion and in everything you do. Simple things bring them to mind like a pale blue sky, gentle wind or even a storm cloud on the horizon. You open your heart knowing that there’s a chance it may be broken one day and in opening your heart, you experience a love and joy that you never dreamed possible. You find that being vulnerable is the only way to allow your heart to feel true pleasure that’s so real it scares you. You find strength in knowing you have a true friend and possibly a soul mate who will remain loyal to the end. Life seems completely different, exciting and worthwhile. Your only hope and security is in knowing that they are a part of your life."


— Bob Marley
 
If you have already found this in someone may you continue to have this special connection for many years to come. If you have yet to find it; I know one day you will.  Keep your heart open and know that love takes risk.