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have the most complicated GPS (Global Positioning Systems) stsyems, a guidance system, integrated within the vehicle.

Check writing is almost a thing of the past. We now have debit cards, online banking and bill pay, and direct deposit. It's now possible to file your income taxes electronically and if our pets are lost they can be track by micro-chips implanted somewhere in their body. This technology wouldn't have been possible without computers.

Because of the pervasiveness of computers in our society rest assure computers will be tied to some of the best jobs available. If you want one of these jobs, then gobble up any computer skills you can.

I'm a living example. Almost seven years ago, I went through a traumatic divorce after almost 27 years of marriage. I'd been a stay at home mom for most of that time.

But, I learned to use the computer over the years once we had brought one into our home. I'd been using the computer for my genealogical research and my knowledge of the computer was growing exponentially.

The ex failed to notice and underestimated what a self taught gal could learn. My new found skills actually allowed me to bust him and his new paramour. They had left a big long trail all over our computer. Angry, he said, "I should have clean the computer up more." Angrier, he proceeded to try and grind me into the ground.

But, I had a new weapon...new skills. Those skills were computer skills. I took those skills and got a job I had never imagined I would get when he first left. I'd been out of the workplace for over 20 years. It was a great job with a good company and better pay than I ever dreamed. And, I used a computer ever day.

I'm sorely afraid for those who refuse to learn the computer. I'm afraid we'll develop an "underclass" like in days gone by filled with the "computer illiterate", who will be destined for low paying, dead-end jobs. I see them confused by simple transactions within our society. When I run into someone like this, I hope I can educate them just enough, encourage them just enough, inspire them just enough and give them the "bug" just enough for them to want to learn how to use those funny little machines.

Learn more about this author, Beverly Hicks Burch.
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