Longevity is a Lovely Touch
Technology and I are not best friends. We tolerate each other. I like what the latest electronic gadgetry can do, and if someone else operates it, I’m an enthusiastic observer. But I’m not keen on learning all the intricacies and solving the whole gamut of mysteries one must solve to use the latest device designed to make life easier. I’m a simple person content with the tried and true.
My husband and I rank high on compatibility even with our glaring differences. He thrives on “take it apart and see if I can get it back together again.” I disturb nothing that works. Directional manuals intimidate me. He finds them challenging. I defer to him on various issues, and he recognizes my expertise in other areas. We’re a good team.
A recent viewing of some family videos from the 80’s reminded us that he was seemingly absent from Christmas, family vacations, and other parties. He wasn’t really, but the kind-hearted guy was typically behind the camera. We owe it to him that we can watch family videos I would still be trying to figure out what went where on the camera and how do I film with it.
We are not a family who is the first to own the latest of anything. We are skilled at improvising, making do, and extending the limits of an appliance, automobile, or any other device. There are two exceptions to that: our Safari minivan purchased in 1985, people often asked about it as few were seen in this area at that time, and we were trendsetters in 1984 with an early generation camcorder which came with a VCR and a recording camera. That bit of technology also required a battery pack and complete with carrying case, packed on some 15 to 18 pounds on the shoulders and back of the person recording. You’re right, it wasn’t me.
When we visited Disney World that summer following our purchase of the camera equipment, people often thought my husband was from a television station or advertising agency. It was a lot of equipment to carry, it looked very professional, and it wasn’t that common. We’ve had wonderful family videos to watch, thanks to a husband and dad who was willing to haul all that equipment around and spend a lot of his vacation time taping.
The videos are full of funny incidents, candid shots, and very poignant scenes including those with much loved relatives and pets who are no longer with us. It’s heartwarming and sad to hear their voices, and it makes you “forget,” if only for a second, that they really are gone.
And oh, yes, the videos are a very tangible reminder that my husband and I are firm believers in using an item until it is literally worn out. That may explain my 25-year-old bathrobe, various pieces of furniture that we’re still using and enjoying, and a few pieces of clothing we’re still sporting that aren’t quite ready for the recycling bin.
Longevity is a lovely touch in both people and possessions. It’s not particularly trendy although current economic trends are increasing its popularity. It’s kind to the earth, to relationships, and it provides delightful moments of nostalgia. And provides so much to reminisce about while watching family videos.
