I said that when I've felt mischievous, I may keep track of how long I sat cooling my heels listening to a long list of various subjects that I may want to deal with at their company - usually none of which I want.

When I get a real, live body, I tell them that their company is saving money by letting a machine answer me rather than a person - but that they're wasting my time, as none of the options offered dealt with the issue that I wanted to discuss.

So - as I've been kept uselessly waiting for, say, a minute and seventeen seconds, I propose to talk nonsense to them for that length of time, then to get down to business.

Some find that an interesting approach to the subject, some tell me in a bit of an annoyed fashion that they are very busy and don't have time to talk nonsense - to which I reply that I, too, am busy, and that they should not forget that their company has kept me waiting, just as uselessly.

I tell them that if they don't want to talk to me, can I talk to their supervisor? None has agreed to that.

No one has hung up on me. If one does, I'll call back immediately and ask to talk to the president.

The moderator of the show laughed and said that he loved that idea - that he was going to use it.

I told him to be my guest.

Have a great week, all.

ole joyful

... or are they so profane that Spike's censor won't let them through?

Anyway - I'm sure that the rest of us would like to hear them.

Don't tell me that you all are learning how to be silent ...

... preparing for the long silence when you they put you in the box?

But - you're still alive. Your brain can think. Your fingers can move, to send your thoughts to us.

We're waiting to hear what you have to say ...

... on this issue - and others, as well.

Good wishes to you all for good physical, mental and spoititual health, interesting things to do, some useful actions to help your community run better, prosperity, friends, the fulfillment of some of your worthwhile dreams - and the visioning of some new ones.

joyful guy/Ed