Chapter 1: Embracing Technology

When it comes to technology, I often feel like a complete novice. The extent of my skills usually involves merely switching devices on, and even that doesn’t always go smoothly. So, when I decided to buy a new laptop, I opted for one labeled as "user-friendly," as suggested by my kids. This brand not only provided classes for those who might struggle but also promised to relieve my children of my constant inquiries.

As I sat nervously in a bustling computer store (I’ll leave the name out), I took out my trendy neon pink laptop case, anxiously anticipating my first training session.

Shortly after, a young tech consultant, probably in his twenties, approached me. However, as we shook hands, I noticed his expression shifting from friendly to strained, much like a fruit left under the sun too long. The loud child nearby was clearly interfering with his ability to focus—and possibly damaging his eardrums.

“I just don’t get why parents bring their kids to places like this,” he muttered, clearly irritated.

“Not a fan of kids, I see,” I thought to myself. “But if he can help me navigate this device, I can overlook his less-than-ideal attitude.”

Focusing back on the task, he asked flatly, “What would you like to learn?”

“Everything,” I replied with an enthusiastic grin.

With a look that seemed to dissect my sixty-eight-year-old face with disdain, he appeared to think, “Oh no, not another clueless adult!”

“Okay, let’s not go that far,” I quickly said, worried he’d abandon the session before it even began. “Just show me the basics. What do I do with my fingers on the touchpad?”

“Is that really where you want to start?” he asked.

“Yes, please teach me that,” I replied, hopeful we were making progress.

But then, silence fell again.

He adopted a pose reminiscent of Rodin’s “The Thinker,” head bent with his hand on his chin, as if deep in contemplation. After what felt like an eternity, he finally spoke.

“Can I make a suggestion to make this more effective?”

“Absolutely!” I replied, eager to cooperate.

“Don’t use the word ‘teach.’ I can’t stand it. You teach dogs, not people.”

Stunned by his reaction to a simple request, I scrambled to adjust my approach.

“Uh, okay. Would you show me instead?”

“Please?” he added, with a touch of condescension.

Growing up, I was always told to be polite, regardless of the situation. Fearing I had offended him, I mentally retreated, allowing his extensive knowledge to wash over me while I battled tears stinging my eyes. The session felt utterly unproductive, and I left feeling belittled.

Yet, as I walked to my car, the shame morphed into a feeling I often try to suppress—anger.

“How can asking to be taught be a negative thing?” I shouted into the empty parking lot. “You are, in fact, a teacher, and it’s people like me who provide you with a job!”

Taking a moment to breathe, I realized there was a valuable lesson hidden in this experience.

While I can't control how others react in challenging situations, I can choose to forgive rather than be consumed by negativity. They might be the ones struggling in that moment, not me. Ultimately, I must lead with empathy and strive to keep my ego at bay.

Video Description: This video explores the fascinating science of magic, shedding light on how illusions can deceive our minds, perfectly capturing the essence of understanding technology in a magical way.

Chapter 2: Moving Forward

While the experience was frustrating, it ultimately served as a reminder of the importance of patience, understanding, and forgiveness in our own learning journeys and interactions with others.