Technologically Challenged

I am laptopless in a computer and electronically driven era with only a few challenged community desktops available and my iPod touch. Communication has been slower and more humbling than normal. That's mainly because of speed, which  is attached to efficiency and most likely my self-image and general desire to be efficient. (This is a lesson that I am learning often while living in China and Peter Hall, though perhaps not as up close and personally as I am learning it now.) I feel most inefficient, and while borrowing laptops is possible, it is like borrowing a car: no one can part with it for too long, and it is inconsiderate to think you can borrow it all the time.

The iPod touch is great for little things, but not lesson planning and lengthy emails. (Though I am attempting to publish this overdue blog today.) Our desktop dinosaurs in Peter Hall actually work pretty well for basic things excepting email with Google. And if you can get over the paranoia of getting a virus when you use your jump drive, which I rarely think about, you can work on your basic word files with considerable ease. Currently there is no printer in the computer room, so you have to visit the front desk or a copy shop with your jump drive, compatible files, paper (for the front desk) and patience (for both places).

Despite these consolations, I miss my laptop. I confess I had a good long cry when I learned that it could not be fixed. Learning about my timing versus Dad's timing is really an issue of will. I don't will this. (Who would?) He does. (It is happening.) He said He would provide for my needs. My needs are met though not according to my standards. (If I didn't have the iPod I would probably be in a perpetual state of frustration.) But they are still met. The other machine was and will be a blessing. And I will bless the Name of my provider without and with a working laptop.

In this technologically challenged state, I find I am being challenged in my heart. And while I do not always enjoy such prodding, I look forward to what is uncovered, confessed and transformed into something more beautiful.