And a New computer is On the Way
Well, it took me awhile, but I finally took the initiative and got ahold of "the guy" who is going to purchase the components and build a new computer for me. When it comes to the world of technology, I keep a few friends on the fringe who I can turn to when I need to upgrade my investment in the world of computers and high-tech machines.
I keep these guys on hand because (A) they know what they're doing, and (B) they tend to have a loose moral fiber when it comes to acquiring hardware and software--I don't know where it comes from, and I don't ask. Sure, my eventual machine may consist of 75 percent questionably-purchased components and pirated software. But, if it saves me a few hundred bucks or more, who am I to judge? In the end, I'll have a computer that is better than most high-end systems found in major corporations. I don't necessarily need to be able to run an enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution, but it's nice to know I could if I wanted to. I just want to play Aliens Versus Predator 2. That's all.
Making large purchases does not come easy to me. I go through what amounts to a religious search for meaning any time I have to part with more than $500. I feel I have to sacrifice a chicken and write the check in chicken blood using a claw as a pen. When I write out a quick $10 check, I do so almost without thinking. But, as I wrote a check to "the guy" for $1,200, I did so very carefully, using ink strokes so fluid the check could qualify as a work of art. I handed the check to "the guy," and he smiled at me with a sly look in his eyes.
"Don't worry, my man," he said. "we'll take care of you."
We? He has a team? And they're going to take care of me? I don't know if I liked the sound of that. I felt like I was in some sort of high technology version of "The Godfather," only instead of Marlon Brando stroking a cat, he'd be nervously fingering a Palm Pilot.
"I'm glad you came to me, Mr. Rhodes. It shows you have respect, and we value respect. Respect is our username and password."
It's disturbing to what lengths I'll go to play really cool video games online.
Posted by Ryan at January 14, 2003 12:09 PM
Stumble It!
