Looking At Possibilities

 

2024-07-08 “Looking At Possibilities” by Merritt

We made it to Miami. On the flight, Jenn and I were talking about all the things I don’t understand, such as debit cards. Jenn said they were really becoming the norm in the ‘90s.

She said, when we reached Miami, we should find her friend, Ailana. A few texts later, it turned out we were staying in the same condo as her, and she agreed to meet us when we got there.

Jenn handled the check in while Ailana, Emma, and I said hello and found a place to sit.

“So, in 2007, smartphones became mainstream,” Ailana said. “The world has been a different place since then. So, get your phones out. Let’s see if we can make up some ground.”

“I got lots o’ ground to make up,” Emma said.

Ailana smiled. “Let’s start with the App store.”

She was great. In a few minutes, she had us going with Google, Maps, Weather… She set us up with a group text for the three of us. I mentioned that Jenn seemed to be ahead of me in understanding everything.

“That’s on account,” Emma said, “of her being brought up to 2024 b’fore you.”

Ailana smiled. “Okay, Emma… App store. If you’re going to live in 2024, you need to learn how to speak more properly.”

Emma forced a smile. “I s’pose you’re right.”

There were many Apps for learning English, but Ailana helped us pick one that would help overcome Emma’s dialect.

“Jenn’s done tole me I need to work out my outfits better,” Emma said. “I s’pose working out my words is another thing.”

I thought Emma might get upset and overwhelmed, but she didn’t tear up at all. 

We talked a little longer, then Ailana said, “Okay, that’s a good start. Now, everyone add me to your contacts… Jenn, I know you already did… Don’t hesitate to text or call if you have questions about things you don’t understand.”

Emma laughed. “I’ll just do it when Jenn can’t help me, else I’d just be talking to you all the time.”

Jenn smiled. “Emma, you’re doing fine. Really.”

Emma smiled and nodded.

Ailana said goodbye and the three of us went to the condo we’re using this week. 

Ailana helped us get on track. We have a long way to go, but, now, we have some tools to help us with the journey.