I don't know about you, but I'm getting so tired of political rancor in all of our countries, and the information, varified or speculated, about the virus, the economy, the society, the rights of everyone, and whatever else the media thinks is important. Thank goodness there are spots on the internet where we can read and celebrate with people who think "outside of the box" and show kindness and empathy in unexpected ways. The sacrifice and service from the medical profession, the police and firefighters, the teachers, and the farmers, is beyond my comprehension, even during the fault-finding and bitterness that has crept in when we haven't been watching.

On a personal note, what can I do in a positive way, to express what is important to me, and still be an encourager, a helper, and a friend to those who 'cross my path'... in the neighborhood, in town, or on the Internet? I'm classed as 'old', even though I don't want to admit it, and some may think I'm almost as old as dirt! We have neighbors, but it's too far for me to walk to their house. Participating in a casual conversation when wearing masks is a challenge for those of us who have a hearing problem. We love to have guests in our home, but that has been curtailed, and a meal in a restaurant is not always possible. 

The one tool that I still have is my computer, and I am so thankful for that technology. I got my first computer in 1983, and the advancement in my lifetime as been phenominal. I can write letters and don't have to drive to the mailbox or lick a stamp. I can enjoy photos that I took more than 60 years ago which bring back a flood of memories. Even though reading is becoming more of a challenge, I still do what I can. Most of my reading is on my computer and not in printed books. I can enjoy some 'Armchair Travel' videos that take me to places in the world that I will never see in person. I've learned graphic design, word processing, and dictation transcribing, and I can still type with eight fingers and two thumbs. I love words... I talk a lot, I'm a Blogger, called 'Talking Fingers', and love to keep learning 'stuff'.

I have been learning photo restoration, and contribute in a group on 'the other' social network. It is a fun group who invite others to post vintage photos that have been damaged or faded over time, with the only request that 'please' and 'thank you' be expressed to each artist. The gratitude expressed is payment enough; we're not professionals, but are learners. There are occasions where the best effort is still criticized, with an attitude that they know everything, but it seems to us that the guidelines were never read, or they just want to be 'cranky'. No problem... there are many great people who will take their place.

I love to help wherever I can, and still enjoy being a Staff Helper here on NOTH. It is my joy to receive delightful messages from people who have learned something new that they can use here and wherever else they spend their computer time. There are times that I will even offer some help when I'm not asked, but for the most part, it can create an opportunity for a chat and a 'thank you'. Questions are always welcome, and if I don't have the answer, I will help to find someone who does have the answer. That's the kind of community that has been developed here on The Hill, and I will continue as long as I can to support the owners and promote this viral social network.

I'm still not bored!

Tags: Computer Repairs Learning Helping Courtesy