The Internet and You

I'd like to spend some time considering how the internet is affecting us all. It's like a creeping tide which even Canute couldn't stop so whether we like it or not it's something we've all got to live with.

For better or worse, the internet is no respecter of age and I like to think of it as being a good servant but a bad master. I've heard so many folk say - with ill disguised arrogance - that they would never have a computer because they see no reason to change the way they have always managed their affairs.

I have to smile because unless they do adjust to what can be described as a new culture, they will risk finding themselves marooned between an unyielding rock and a very hard place.

I say smile but it's not funny. A lot of these people are close friends but unfortunately friends who refuse to discuss the subject.

It's sure to happen and maybe sooner than later - I'm well prepared for when my help is solicited. In most cases it won't be an apologetic approach but more likely with an outpouring of excuses as to why there were too many other constraints on their valuable time.

I'm not saying that I'm an expert in the complicated field of hardware and software, but I have an advantage in that I enjoy computing and try to learn something new on a daily basis. I'm not exactly happy about the situation because the time is not far distant when all communications will be conducted digitally. There will be very few options which don't involve the use of computers.

Youngsters will have no trouble because they only understand the modern way. Do you know any child not wearing nappies who hasn't got a mobile phone? Most will have, not just a simple phone to merely make calls but a device with internet access on a contract funded by loving parents.

Senior citizens will inevitably be the ones to suffer most from this new alternative culture - or at least a lot will!

So many have lived long lives with simple needs and have always paid their bills on time; bills which have dropped through the letter-box in buff coloured envelopes - but not for much longer.

How will they now survive without understanding a modicum of the new technology? They will need whatever help they can get. Help from anyone who has the knowledge.

I appeal to everyone to demonstrate that the community spirit is still alive and kicking because governments and big business are unlikely to do much to help in a situation which could ruin life quality for so many.