Technology

I have some ambivalence about technology. I hate to feel dumb. I really hate it. I miss the days of big, heavy, complete instructions manuals. I can follow clear directions. Really, I can. I have more trouble with the point and click and see what happens method, crossing my fingers that it'll be what I intended. Who came up with icons? They don't look like anything to me. Couldn't they have a word next to them, so I'd know what they were for? Please! I'm constantly asking a more intuitive friend, "What does this picture mean?" On my computer, in my car, on my cell phone. I'm not the only one who has no idea what they mean! There's some comfort in that.

I am grateful for the huge progress we've made...especially once I "get" it, even a little bit. No longer are my computer files corrupted by static electricity or a bit of dust on a monthly basis. I was really conscientious about backing up files back then, even to several different restore points--just in case. I don't miss those days. Once I break down and try the new-to-me technology, I soon feel naked without it. I love my cell phone and my ipod. I could use a couple more ipods. I love being able to research online, even though I'm never sure about the source. Still, when I have those nagging questions in the middle of the night, it's nice to have some input. I'm falling in love with the mobility of a laptop. Only a month ago my head was splitting from trying to set up a router and figure out why the laptop wouldn't access the internet.

Little by little I'll venture into the 21st century. Yeah, I do prefer my laptop to a slab of stone and a chisel.