Monday, November 23, 2009

Ode To The Cell Phone

Remember when we didn't have cell phones?

Ya, I know, many of us complain about them, the leash tethering us to work or family.

But, I have been without one in Colorado. It throws me back to BCP (Before Cell Phone).

I used to make elaborate arrangements to meet people with back up plans in case the arrangements failed. And, from time to time, I would miss people entirely.

One Christmas, my daughter and I made plans to meet after some independent shopping in a major department store. Unknown to me, the store had an entire huge section that I missed. Consequently, I couldn't find her.

I ACP time, I would pick up the phone and find out where she was.

I waited in the parking lot until I was the last car in the lot. Finally, she walks out to my truck and we reunite.

That one sticks in my mind.

I worked for an engineering firm in the 70's that gave me a roll of dimes and demanded that I call them after each field project. It worked--if I graced them with a call.

The cell phone is one convenience that I don't want to do without. Our visit has been a patchwork of missed appointments, missed opportunities and general planning overload because we can't communicate.

And on to a new topic...

I went to the Social Security Office today to get an application for benefits and information on the required documents.

The place was packed with standing room only. They have a computerized number taking system...for God's sake...does anyone really need that?

I waited a hour and a half. Not a problem, I have been trained in Panama. This was not a wait but more of a short delay.

I call them a few weeks ago to get the same info. They told me I needed 3 years of W2's. I don't trust them to get it right so I visited the office and sure enough, they gave me different information and more information.

I think I will call a few more times to cover all the bases. I have to return to the US to file so I have to get it right or the trip will be waisted.

Believe me I am not complaining. I will jump through any hoops if someone is going to give me money!

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