THEY ARE THE BORG, AND BAD AT THAT

Too much of yesterday was spent trying to pay a bill to a company that now requires an extra step of authentication, and has only robotic intelligence at the end of the help line. If that is the best that AI can do we humans have no reason to fear. The droids will never find us.


On the other hand, I also needed to do stuff down in Chinatown. Speaking to real humans, with flexible human sentience. And thoughtful responses. And facial recognition!
They didn't even ask to scan my retinas!

There was also a young lady at the bus stop when I got off at Powell Street with the loveliest and most radiant smile. Which changed my mood entirely. As one would expect.

Yes, she was Chinese American, and no, she wasn't one of the people with whom I needed to speak. Although that may change if I encounter her again. And manage to talk intelligently.

That's always an iffy question.

In all honesty I'm awful at small talk.

Years ago, after we moved to Valkenswaard when I was five, I was invited to another child's birthday party. I spent several hours hiding under the table where the draped tablecloth hid me and thus forestalled the need to talk with anyone.

That methodology, while memorable, is hardly the way to make a positive impression.
And sadly, the city is not littered with festive tables properly covered.
Possibly that would be a major civic improvement.
And I should probably suggest it.


Perhaps a strongly worded letter to the editor will do the trick.



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