Indy Telecom & Industrial Media

Ever so often, you come across something in life that makes you question the future of humanity. I call it the “toothpick” moment, inspired by Douglas Adams, when one of his character states that he lost faith in humanity after he saw instructions and disclaimer on a toothpick.

Angry Me: My e-mail is down!

Service Rep: Oh. I’m sorry to hear that.

Angry Me: I’ve filed several complaints about it, but nothing’s been done yet.

Service Rep: I’ll look at it right away, sir.

Tired Me: Fine, but that’s what you said the last three times.

Service Rep: The records say that we tried getting in touch with you, it seems that you were not available.

Surprised Me: Oh? When was this?

Service Rep: We sent you an e-mail about this over three days ago!

This is where I went quiet, for a good few minutes. I was in total shock to say anything. Wow - that was all I could think of.

Stunned Me: You sent me an *email* about it?

Service Rep: Yes sir! You should find it in your inbox. It’s from someone called $IDIOT.

Stunned Me: I filed a complaint saying that my email is down and you sent me an email about it?

Service Rep: Yes sir!

Silence on the phone, while I let the person at the other end ponder over her statement. Finally, the profundity of her statement dawns on her.

Service Rep: OH!!!

Tired Me: Yeah.

Service Rep: Well…

Tired Me: Yeah?

Service Rep: We’ll figure something out, sir.

Tired Me: I’m sure you will. I most certainly am sure you will.

I shook my head and hung up the phone.

And looking back, wow is all I can say about it. That was a toothpick moment, right there.

Star Trek? Bah, half of us shouldn’t even be allowed to get out of the house, let alone running amok in the galaxy.