Dumbfounded.

If you read this blog, or know me, you know that I work in IT. If you know anything about working in IT, you know that we in the field are privy to some of the most asinine questions and comments in the workplace. Desktop computers have been prominent for what, 15 or so years now? If you work in an office, you should know how to use one by now.

I don't mind intelligent questions about problems that the average computer user would not know about, that's what I'm here for. I do mind when a person goes out of their way attempting to convince me that their parents were direct relatives.

Yesterday, after spending 45 minutes (no exaggeration) trying to explain the difference between "Reply" and "Reply to All," a frustrated user under my blanket of support dropped a bombshell that left me speechless. This person's co-workers and supervisor had been growing tired of being spammed with unnecessary email from the user and asked me to step in. I tried every explanation I could think of to no avail. The final, frustrated reply to my efforts?

"I just don't see how they can expect me to know about computers. I'm just a secretary, it's YOUR job to know how to use these things!"

If I were a mechanic, would it be my job to know how to drive her car? This mentality would put a crimp on many professions. A carpenter's job would never be done. He'd build a house, then have to stop back several times a day to open the front door for it's occupants. Doctors would write a prescription, then have to help their patients find the proper orifice in which to insert the pill. I shudder to think about what a plumber's life would be like.

"How was work today, honey?"

"Terrible. Mrs. Johnson called today. She had chili for dinner last night."