Computer hassles

By Cassandra Walker

Ahh, modern communication.

We recently had that high-speed cable Internet connection installed into our home. It wasn’t my idea.

“Cassandra, your computer is so slow, I am growing a beard waiting for it to connect me online,” my husband growled.

“We installed the newer faster sleeker modem just two years ago, I thought that was supposed to speed up everything,” I responded.

To which he added, ” That was two years ago, that is like 10 decades in computer years.”

I didn’t know computers had separate years. I am a simple girl … I like to keep things the same. The same computer paper, computer printer and modem.

My husband is much more technology driven than I am, therefore the newer, faster-than-a-speeding-bullet cable Internet connection was installed.

Oh, the technician was excited when he explained to me the advantage of using this new connection.

“You will be able to get on and get all your shopping done in minutes instead of hours.” He chuckled.

“I don’t shop on the Internet,” I told him as I had a less-than-enthusiastic look on my face.

“Well, you will be able to shop. Surf, download, upload, send and receive photos – anything you want – with this new addition,” he proudly announced.

I looked at him with little emotion and said, ” I just type my column and send e-mails, I don’t need any fancy speed-limit-breaking device for that.”

He left quickly. I don’t think he felt welcomed.

That evening, I tried out the new service, and I must admit I was impressed. I could see movie trailers with full sound and getting connected online took only seconds. I hated to admit it, but it was easier and faster.

By the end of the day, I had spent over three hours on the Web. That is a record for me. I found a new friend in this high-speed connection.

Then, without warning, on Day No. 7 of having Internet service, I couldn’t get online. I tried and tried, but my computer kept shutting down.

I picked up the phone and called the company. I heard a recording: “All high-speed connection is down in your area, sorry for the inconvenience.”

I went upstairs and used the computer with the slow-as-a-snail connection and typed my column and sent some e-mails.

Ahh, life as I am used to it. Normal and without all the fuss.

Cassandraism: There is nothing like good old reliability.

Thanks for sharing.

Cassandra Walker

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Cassandra Walker is a national award-winning columnist and author. She also hosts a talk-radio show on KMOX radio 1120 AM, as well as co-hosts a television program in St. Louis, Mo. Read more of Cassandra Walker's articles here.