Locked Out

Because I’ve explored meditation and consciousness most of my life, some folks might think I have a handle on stress. I suppose I have some skills in this area, but some things really tick me off! Recently, I experienced a severe attack of what I call “digital distress.” Dealing with the complexities of technology really irritates me. I don’t think Buddha had this problem. Maybe that’s why he was able to become enlightened (drum shot, ha!).

I recently purchased a new computer, and the transition was a nightmare. I was locked out of an account, and nothing I did could change the situation. The AI bots on the customer service help line told me to wait 24 hours and try again. That didn’t work. Then I was informed I might need to wait several days before I could try again. I finally went through several live customer service advisors until I was referred to a supervisor in Canada. She was very kind and spoke in a voice that sounded like she had dealt with my age group many times.

We spent an hour on the phone, exploring things way beyond my skillset, and eventually we found a solution. I was deeply moved by her presence. I expressed my admiration for her patience and offered words of gratitude. I think I heard her weep a few tears. She probably receives more grief than gratitude in her customer interactions. We parted in a kind of silence that seemed to echo a momentary, precious human connection. Though I was locked out, it opened the door to a moment of shared kindness.