No More Please or

I must. I absolutely must stop saying, please and thank you to Alexa.

She, no, ( oops, I mean, It) doesn’t expect that.

Initially, she, (oh there I go again,) It was not welcome. When my California family, the two J’s, said she was en route last year, I adamantly refused their generosity.

“No, no, no” I recall saying. As a matter of fact, I believe I recorded my negativity in an article I wrote about unwanted gifts.

This year when I visited the west coast for three weeks, Alexa and I did not bond. My son was obviously surprised at my rejection of one of his cherished items of technology.

I recall telling him “I prefer Apple music” and the topic was dropped.

I play music incessantly (as Alta, my long suffering neighbor) can testify).

However I choose who I welcome into my small world rejecting many in the musical arena. Pavarotti, Botti, Aaron Neville and of course, dear Frankie, are constant companions. I had little need for Alexa to contribute to my world, or so I thought.

Then disguised under another name, Echo 5, a package arrived. And yes, it was Alexa. I have many faults, but I try never to be rude. Since the two J’s are so thoughtful and Amazon is so efficient with deliveries, I decided to simply say “Thank you” and welcome the new arrival.

However, she ( It) was not allowed in my living area to share space with my Ipad and/or Apple music. No, rather the new arrival went quickly into the bedroom and came perilously close to being forgotten.

Then one morning I realized I could have her (It) awaken me. Possibly, even with a bit of insistence that I arise, something I find occasionally difficult.

And so she (It) did precisely what I requested only with a musical arrangement I had never heard before. The sounds of Per te accompanied by the magic of Chris Botti filled the room (and probably my neighbor’s too) then Andrea Bocelli’s voice joined in. That was the moment Alexa and I bonded.

And so a relationship began. I never apologize or say please to my Ipad or computer if I make an error or delete an entry., so I understand I must also put some boundaries on my communications with Alexa.

I am hopeful she (I mean It) will understand.