phone free adelphi vol. 15 - April 22nd, 2026
phone free adelphi vol. 15 was a social one, so instead of focused screen-less work, we just straight up hung out. However, I did want a bit of structure up top, so I settled on hosting a staring contest.
There were 6 groups of 4 starers with me as a roaming ref. As I walked around, it was clear that people were taking the assignment seriously. I witnessed intense eye contact, impromptu audiences, and giddy laughter. Also, a couple participants discovered their hidden talent, which was a joy and genuine SHOCK to witness.
After the first round winners faced the other first round winners and those winners faced other winners, we had our championship round between Michael and Reba. And boy oh BOY did they deliver.
I don't believe anyone was timing them (remember, no phones), but I'm pretty sure they each stared for at least 4-5 minutes. Let me put it this way: it was long enough for me to consider whether I should have gotten some kind of insurance in case they permanently damaged their vision (apparently staring contest generally don't, only mild discomfort).
convincing myself that this was a terrible idea in the foreground during the final round in the background
Both Reba and Michael had no clue they were so innately gifted at staring. I don't believe Reba cited any specific reason for her crazy – and victorious – talent; Michael believed it was maybe his years birding (plug for the excellent weekly McGolrick Bird Club) or his experience as an overtired father. Either way, it was way more captivating than I thought a staring contest could possibly be.
Congrats to Reba! And thanks to everyone else who made it.