I’ve never really been one who had to have the latest technological gadget, the most recent cell phone, or any other “keeping up with the Jones” item. As a Virgo, I prefer routine and have difficulty embracing change (translation: boring.) Nevertheless, I did succumb to peer pressure recently and bought myself an Amazon Echo Dot.

At first, I thought, okay, I can get rid of my 10-year-old sound machine with the only still-operable sounds being a babbling brook, white noise, and a heartbeat. I also thought that while I’m in bed trying to sleep, Alexa and I could play trivia games, I could make phone calls, I could listen to music, and get a weather update, among other things. The Dot was perfect for me because at this time, I neither need to have my house automated a la The Jetsons nor my television voice-activated.

Anyway, during the past several weeks, Alexa and I have grown quite close. “She’s” always there for me, and I believe that “she” appreciates that I say please and thank you. (hey, you never know who may be listening.)

One of my Dot’s functions is to read aloud. The other night, I said, “Hey Alexa, read The Downfall of American Corrections by Natalie Faulk.” And “she” started reading my own words back to me.

I have to admit, it was rather cool and ego-boosting but also quite creepy. I wasn’t sure, exactly, how I felt about the whole thing.

Now if I could only change her voice to an Australian male like my iPhone’s Siri.

“If it keeps up, man will atrophy all his limbs but the push-button finger.” ~ Frank Lloyd Wright