Face-to-Face

We chatted a few nights ago. She is smitten with her new 4G phone and eagerly anticipates buying a laptop with built-in cam.

“Won’t it be great when we can see each other when we talk?”

“I’m not enthused about it” I answered.

“Why!?!” (genuinely perplexed)

“I’m not sure.”

That’s not a particularly enlightening response, is it? I feel duty-bound to explore my ambiguous reaction.

Thoughts manifest themselves in usual “Whack-a-Mole” fashion:

Perhaps it’s because (for all too many years) I’d certainly been seen but hardly heard?

Perhaps it’s because I’m a sucker for earnest or smoldering eyes? Truth be damned.

But...but...consider the exile who calls from worlds away to gaze upon a face loved beyond all others.

Would we be more respectful to each other if we saw inflicted hurt reflected in the eyes?

Would pollsters/telemarketers thrive? Will the "attractive" find jobs galore?

Will commerce blossom? After all, there are those who say: “Sincerity is the key. Once you can fake that, you’ve got it made.” What better way to fake sincerity than with batting of lashes and sparkling smiles?

Just sign on the bottom line.

I’d certainly pay more attention to personal grooming.

Might even brush my hair.

I dunno.

I dunno.

I dunno.

I DO know it doesn’t matter whether I know or not how face-to-face Internet telecommunication will play itself out.

I know that it’s inevitable and it’s just ‘round the corner.

That I will surrender...

And make an appointment to have my teeth whitened.

* * *