Americans, how to live without TikTok

Even as there's a new-old cock of the walk in town, Americans are reeling from the temporary disappearance of TikTok reels. Teens, especially, have been left zombie-eyed, staring into their phones utterly TokTiked. As Indians, we weaned ourselves off the appiate - an app that acts as an opiate - way back in June 2020. So, as veteran Tik-resistant people, let's Tok some sense into our American friends who need advice in their darkest screen hour.

First, start believing that things exist even if they're not uploaded on social media. A sudden dance routine you break into is something you may actually be engaged in even if it isn't shared on an app. Next, rediscover the joy - no, not of actual face-to-face conversations - of diminishing human interactions. Take the value of privacy - 'Keep away' sign on every teen's door - to its next logical level. You'll know the difference between being happily alone and unhappily lonely. Without the siren song of TikTok, pick up other addictive habits of your choice you have neglected. Without naming them for legal and ethical reasons, let's just say you'll be providing your country with generous revenues (yes, perhaps at the cost of your well-being). There you have it, America. It's not about China at all. Living without TikTok will make you the Tok of town - and an instant celebrity on Insta and FB reels.