Mom speaks*

Driving used to be fun.  I was free to roam and explore.   I could chose any route and there was always a surprise around the corner.  Now I have to negotiate.  My car’s computer, who shall be nameless nags and commands.  On the surface, she’s (pardon the sexism) polite when she says “turn right in 12 seconds”.  But I know she’s thinking “OK stupid.  Wake up and watch the road.  Do I have to do everything?”.

 

At first I was pleased with the upgrade, “Mom Speaks”.  After all, who better to take care of you than your mother?

 

As soon as you start the car there’s a stream of reminders:

-Did you forget your jacket?

-Did you go to the bathroom?

-Did you eat a good breakfast?

-Did you fasten your seatbelt?

 

Then as you travel, you hear the warnings:

-Don’t speed

-Keep your eyes on the road

-Watch out for potholes

-You’re getting too close

 

There will be some encouragement:

-Only 39 miles to your destination

-You’re are right on schedule

-You have saved gas by going slow

-You are handsome and you will be rich

 

But there will be reprimands too:

-I told you to turn!

-Where did you get your license?

-I can’t believe you did that.

-I am stopping the car.  Are you trying to kill me?

 

I would shut off Mom Speaks but she controls the car now.   I can’t start or stop without her permission.  I am helpless.  What have I done?  Take a bus!

 

As the bus pulls away I relax in my comfortable spacious seat.  I hear a familiar voice…. “Welcome to the Bus.  Let’s start with a few safety rules…”*

 

Lee

*Thanks to my brother-in-law, Reverend George.  He assures me that God has a sense of humor.  I hope so or I am doomed.