IT for the Oldies

Being the youngest member of our family (in Dubai), I presumed I have little knowledge in IT compared to the rest. Thanks to my computer instructor in college and to my virtual friends who constantly share their ideas and techniques in understanding the computer language. Apparently, I am not proficient in IT. I can’t even perfectly enumerate all parts of the computer and distinguish its functions.

I did not expect this little knowledge I was talking to would give smiles to the aged – the people I am living with for two years now. They are the people who were not introduced to the computer world during their younger years. They are my flat mates – certified home cleaners and nannies.

What motivates me to extend my hands to them?

This is simply because of my desire to help them cut/lessen their expenses on international calls to their love ones in the Philippines. Personally, I am tired of listening to them complaining about their monthly telephone expenses which are beyond their budget. So I decided to share my time teaching them[for free].

They don’t have basic knowledge in computer. They don’t recognize keyboard, monitor and CPU. Teaching them requires more time and dedication. But, I patiently taught them the most basic – turning on and off the pc until they learned how to type and use the YM.

Today, the oldies (Ate Rose and Ate PM) know how to chat with their families especially Ate PM who did not see her children and grandchildren for long time. I can still recall the first day Ate PM’s net meeting with her children. She was extremely happy to see them as if they were actually seeing each other in person. On the other hand, Ate Rose’s exposure to the chat rooms promises her something – that one day she can find her soul mate. Who knows?