By Remy McCool/south news editor

I find myself in a room full of people sitting with their heads tilted downward, staring intently at their cell phones. This is a daily occurrence in my world, as I am sure it is for many others.

Social media is the driving force that creates the scene described above. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat, to name a few, consume the attention of our generation. I am equally as guilty. Nevertheless, this infatuation is a slippery slope.

When people in social settings are consistently checking their phones, are they really present in the real-life moment? Obviously, they are physically present. However, they are not mentally present or engaged. According to a study by Edison Research, 23 percent of Facebook users log in a minimum of five times each day.

Not only is it annoying, but also it is terribly rude when people are talking with an individual standing before them, yet they do not put their phones down. For example, checking out in a store or remaining on a phone when a waitress approaches a table slows down everyone and is simply inconsiderate.

Social media is undeniably here to stay and, used in moderation, it can be a great tool. It is a remarkable way to stay connected to family and friends who may live far away. It is also a great source for news, information and images to reach mass audiences in a quick manner. Many young business professionals also find social media an effective way of networking. Business2community.com found that 72 percent of all Internet users are now active on social media.

However, moderation is key. One can find many great people online to meet, converse with and get to know. However, the relationships formed in real life will be far more satisfying than the knowledge that Kim Kardashian ate a salad for lunch.

From time to time, look up from the phone while in the presence of people. It’s the considerate thing to do.