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It's Called the Internet

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I'm sure people were skeptical of radios when they first came out. Black magic, voodoo, devil's word, invisible communication when science fiction didn't even exist. Companies must have quickly realized the benefits of advertising with this unproven concept.

Then came TV, though it would seem the transition from radio to TV would be less stressful and misunderstood than the previous version of printed to radio. Naturally, this progression continued with the internet.

That was, literally, a solid generation ago. Stalwarts of all the other media styles must understand the importance of being able to be connected (alas, social media and fake news have shown the destructive nature of irresponsible and whimsical connectivity). Regardless, you need a cel phone and email address in first-world countries.

If you own a business, it is all but impossible to effectively operate without a digital presence. A placeholder website is dirt cheap. Maybe you chose the joker route of only a fakebook page - you are a poser, make no mistake about it, and your business is a joke - but at least it's something.

The generational thing can be a hindrance. Advancing age or waning enthusiasm might make online stuff too daunting. You can't miss something or know its capabilities if you've never used it. Besides, things have worked out fine so why change?

I met one of those people, a spry octogenarian who owned an antiques store specializing in 18k gold jewelry. He gushed over my necklace. When I said that I made it his eyes lit up. He wanted quotes on various styles because his regular jeweler was retiring. His rich client base would eat them up, so he said.

We exchanged numbers with a promise that I'd get some quotes and pictures once I returned home. I did my due diligence and got those done stat. I called to get his email. He didn't use the internet and didn't have an email address. That was shocking.

OK, we'll work around this. I suggested texting the relevant information. He said fine, except it wasn't. No smart phone, either (actually, he didn't even know he didn't have a smart phone). He repeatedly promised to talk to his internet-and-phone-wiz nephew to get it fixed. Same fairy tale, different day.

He mentioned sending physical pictures through the mail. It might be fine and dandy for 19th century commerce and his needs but no customer would feel confident placing a $15k order under such dubious circumstances. Could I have sent pictures? Yes, but given his lousy track record I concluded it wouldn't have mattered anyway.

I gave up after a month. Now I feel compelled to ask everyone who wants to do business with me if they've heard of the internet and know what a smart phone is, however foolish or patronizing it sounds.

Posted by M: August 4, 2025

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