Columnists

Geek Speak… Live The Unexpected Life!

Issue 37.14

What have you done this week that was out of the ordinary, spontaneous or exciting? When life feels heavy or boring, it is not life that is the problem. It is me. When relationships get stale it is not the relationship or even usually the other person. It is what you are putting into it in the way of thought, creativity, focus and caring.

I am encouraging all my readers to do something different. The experiences that have given me the most happiness, excitement, purpose and pleasure have come from choosing to break the pattern, add something that wasn’t there before or move in a new direction. Please understand that I am not advocating abandoning principles or commitments. I am definitely not encouraging anyone to leave behind people or circles of influence or responsibilities that are important. I am simply saying “add something”, “create something” or “be something” new.

A few years ago, I was asked to volunteer my time as a teacher at the local commonwealth school. As I looked at this idea, I had all kinds of reasons why I couldn’t and shouldn’t do it. The preparation time was 20 hours a week because I had to read extensively and plan for the two hour discussion and mentoring. The group was made up of very intelligent teens that asked hard questions of me and each other. The principles and ideas went deep into the Constitution, literature, thinking processes, personal integrity and responsibility, etc. I didn’t have time for this. It would take away from my work and income. I did it anyway.

The amazing thing is that all that work and thought and helping others lead me to other things. A year and a half later, I decided to run for the US Senate. “A Fool’s Errand” is the phrase that comes to mind. I had no money, no fame and no chance to win. I did it anyway. I had the opportunity to speak all over the state, to debate other candidates in public and on the radio, to speak my piece on the internet and on TV. I am told that I made a difference in the way many people perceive our political system and their relationship to it. I am told that many people got involved in the process that had given up hope.

And here I am running again – this time for US Congress. There still is not much hope of winning, but I can tell you that, in addition to being tired and overworked, I am exhilarated and feel that what I am doing is worthwhile. People tell me that what I do is making a difference in their lives and their perceptions. I am more alive and engaged.

What does this have to do with computers? Just this. If you are spending your time playing solitaire or watching cat videos or facebooking, think about whether you are growing, changing or making a difference. I do a little of all those things, but I don’t have time for much of it. I have articles to write, research to do, campaign speeches to create and deliver, books about real ideas that matter. It all started because I was willing to step out of the comfort zone, volunteer and do something most would consider a waste of time and energy. There are young people that need your insights and experience, civic groups that need your input and help, your body and mind that need your attention. And you will be a more interesting and engaged person, spouse, friend, parent, grandparent, etc.

Robert Frost concludes one of his most famous poems with these words.

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less traveled by,

And that has made all the difference”

I know this article is a little unexpected and different, but that’s what makes life interesting. Oh yeah, and remember to always back up anything on your computer that is important to you.

Shaun McCausland has worked in the computer industry for over 32 years, 25 years of it locally with Bits ‘N’ Bytes and Musicomp and currently does in-home and on-site computer consultation, service, training and repair. If you have questions you can reach him at 435-668-7118 or shaun@musicomp.n

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