Ctrl+Alt+Delete

I have to admit that I'm a technology lover. While some may be avid instruction readers, I prefer to make that my last resort. I'd much rather discover the intricacies of technology than have a step-by-step tutorial showing me how it's 'supposed' to work. I enjoy trial and error. I start clicking buttons and see where I end up. Now, one would think that as an organized, rule-follower (for the most part), who loves to read I would snatch up the instructions and read them cover to cover. Not so, my friend. I want to live on the edge, toss out the playbook (not literally- it will get neatly filed behind the proper tab in my "Manuals" binder), and explore new territory. I am the Lewis and Clark of technology.

This week for my birthday I was ecstatic to receive a Kindle (from my in-laws) and a label maker (from my dear friend at work). Both perfect gifts for me and both new technology. So of course, as soon as I get the Kindle, I turn it on and immediately begin clicking buttons and finding free books. And, seconds after installing the batteries, I created my first label that said, 'It works!' and gave it to the friend who so kindly blessed me with that gift! My next adventure will be discovering how to add borders to the labels!

This love for technology has also given me opportunities to serve others. But, I always have to laugh when helping someone with a computer problem, because the one phrase I hear most is, "I was afraid I'd mess something up." I have to say, I don't think I've ever uttered those words. I come from a Ctrl+Alt+Delete generation. I am all for trying something new and if it doesn't work, reset and fix the problems. It seems that people often do the same things year in and year out just because "it's what we've always done". I hope that I never get to that point. Even in my classroom, I teach the same books, but every year looks a bit different. I add to, subtract from, and sometimes completely scrap what I've done in the past. Change keeps me on my toes. It keeps me alert and prevents me from living on auto-pilot. I don't want to coast through life. I want to take risks and have adventures. I want to live as if Ctrl+Alt+Delete is not just a computer option, but an option in life, too. If something doesn't work, don't stress, reset. What would you try if you could just Ctrl+Alt+Delete if it didn't work out?