Navigating Technology: From Rural Wisconsin to the Digital Age

Technology has undergone a monumental evolution in the last 50 years, transforming every aspect of our daily lives. This journey is personified through the experience of my mother, who lived most of her life in rural Western Wisconsin, and my own personal experiences with technology as a tech-savvy 20-year-old.

My Mother's Journey: A Technophile at 98

My mother, a true technophile, died just short of her 98th birthday, leaving behind a legacy of curiosity and adaptability. As she passed away, playing Solitaire on her iMac, she had a handwritten list of eight new things she planned to explore. Most of these were tech-related, a testament to the profound impact of technology on her life.

Born and raised in rural Western Wisconsin, she spent her formative years on a poor farm where she grew corn in hills and meticulously selected crop samples to earn extra cash. Her library was a simple wooden box, supplied by the county once a month and auctioned off for first access to new books. This rudimentary setup pales in comparison to the modern digital libraries we have today, where vast amounts of information are just a click away.

In her youth, she faced social norms that often constrained women and rural individuals. She was scolded for outracing her neighbor’s Model T with her pony, a gesture that symbolizes the early steps towards personal freedom and technological exploration. Her journey from a hardworking farmwife to a tech-savvy elder reflects the vast changes in society and the role of technology over the decades.

My Technological Journey: Modern-Day Adaptation

While my mother's life story is a testament to resilience and curiosity, I have my own journey with technology. Born in the late 1990s, I was introduced to computers with a basic HP laptop. As the years progressed, I embraced the latest advancements in technology, including the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 and the Samsung Galaxy S20. These devices are not just tools; they are extensions of my daily life, connecting me with the world in ways my mother could have only imagined.

Like my mother, keeping up with the latest technology is a continuous process. While I have an iPhone, it is not the most recent model. However, I have embraced other newer technologies such as an air fryer and VR (virtual reality). The air fryer, for instance, represents a more efficient and healthier way to cook, while VR allows for immersive experiences that were previously unimaginable.

The Evolving Nature of Technology

The evolution of technology reflects broader societal changes and the ongoing quest for efficiency, convenience, and connection. From the introduction of personal computers in the 1980s to the ubiquitous smartphones and digital assistants of today, each generation of technology builds on the last, creating an exponential growth in capabilities and accessibility.

For my mother, technology was a means to access information, stay connected, and explore new interests. For me, it's an integral part of daily life, from online communication to remote work and entertainment. The ability to learn new technologies, whether through online tutorials or community forums, has never been more accessible. Social media, educational platforms, and forums provide platforms to share knowledge and stay informed about the latest technological advancements.

The journey of my mother and my own experience highlight the significant role technology plays in shaping our lives. It is a tool that bridges generations, facilitating understanding and adaptation. As technology continues to evolve, it is crucial for individuals to stay informed and engaged, continuously learning to utilize these tools for personal growth and societal impact.