Monday, February 8, 2016

Offended by a Machine



We just traded in our 2006 Nissan Altima for a 2015 version of the same automobile. 

(What a difference a decade makes)!

Our old red jalopy lacked all the new-fangled gadgets, computers and cameras which the newer one possesses. 

(Speaking of “possesses,” sometimes I think our current model is possessed by someone or something).

I mean, I was driving along the other day, not doing any harm to anyone, when I decided to check out the navigation system a bit. But as I touched the nav-screen, suddenly the car “did a KITT” on me. (re. the “Knight Rider” television program). 

“Please pay attention to where you’re going! Keep your eyes on the road! This function is disabled while you are driving!”

Kinda hurt my feelings.

The car’s curt command reminded me of the time I was at Arlington National Cemetery, while watching the Tomb Guard walk those 21 steps of his. And it so happened that a couple of children (or adults) were talking loudly, and laughing.

 Suddenly, the immaculately attired soldier stopped in his tracks, and shouted,

“It is requested that you maintain silence in the presence of these honored dead; who gave the last full measure of devotion!”

A living, breathing human being is one thing, but a talking car is “a horse of a different color.”

I’ve never been offended by a machine before, but I guess there’s a first time for everything.


 By William McDonald, PhD. Excerpt from "(Mc)Donald's Daily Diary" Vol. 26. Copyright pending

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