Since computers first became a normal staple on our desks, when experiencing a technical problem, that age-old question from the Help Desk, “Did you reboot?” has become a joke.
I no longer use a computer (iPad User On Mother Board) nor do I I have an in-house IT Department. I, like all of us, are at the mercy of the specific app or device Contact Us listing. Sometimes the only choice is to send an email or do a chat. I try to troubleshot myself. Anything to avoid having to make the call. When you have exhausted all DIY instructions, you send up the SOS, hoping for the best, expecting the worst.
Recently my local library app wasn’t working properly. When I was notified that an ebook I had reserved was available to me, I hit the “BORROW” button, immediately receiving an error message. Trying to remedy the situation myself was unsuccessful. I phoned the library, bracing myself for the inevitable. As is often the case, I did not have to wait long. The very nice woman on the other end of the line logged into my account, it all looked good. She said, “I would delete the app, reboot your iPad and add the app again.” It took all I had in me not to heavy sigh, but she was too kind to inflict upon her such a reply. I thanked her, before we hung up she told me to call back if it this didn’t fix it. I assumed we would be speaking again soon.
I tried repairing the damage one more time, then bit the bullet, doing what she had recommended. I was annoyed the whole time I went through the steps, and in my head I kept thinking about the Help Desks in my past. It seemed not much has changed since my first experience with a computer in the late 80’s.
App reinstated, I logged on to my library account, went to my Holds, touched “Borrow” and there was the book, ready for me to read. I decided to call the librarian again, to let her know I had had success and express my gratitude for her assistance. It was my way of apologizing to her for the dubiousness she didn’t even know had been directed at her.
On that morning, I turned the page on my attitude towards the shut down / restart process. Sometimes beginning again is the only way to right yourself, to fix what isn’t working, to set yourself up for a positive outcome. I have had to do this so many times in my life, as I am sure you have too. It was really always the only option if I wanted to move forward, so it is odd that I am hesitant to do so when I am dealing with technology.
Don’t doubt the reboot. Instead, be grateful we can always start over with a clean app and fresh login. And a really good book waiting for you.
#sisterrain #alittlesightalotofheart #legallyblindwriter #dontdoubtthereboot
