Once again I forgot to turn off my cell phone in a class, disrupted the instructor and annoyed the students. This time I was mortified because it was so loud and I couldn't figure out that it was MY phone.
So I took some time out today to write an apology letter and outline some steps that I and others can use to cope with these situations in the future. And also to help remind me that it is much easier just to turn off my phone.
| This is what I wrote to my class mates on Facebook with some revisions. I am one of those who suffer from 'cell phone challenge disorder'. And I was absolutely mortified once again in the embroidery design computer graphics class. Sorry about that --- really really sorry! So I've written out a list of ways to cope with CPCD. 1. Put your cell phone on vibrate. Set it on your lap. When it buzzes say quietly "Oh my! Oooooh myyyy...." Don't go for a third 'Oh my.' that's pushing it. 2. Answer the ring quickly, frown, and walk out the door. It is taxing when the President of the United States keeps calling at all hours of the day and night. 3. Fumble around to locate your phone, answer it and say "What? Grandpa fell off the roof chasing a man named Bob? That's all? I told you not to call unless it is important!" It doesnt really matter what is being said on the other end. Just hit the button to hang up as if you could you would slam the reciever down on its cradle. (Only people over 50 know how satisfying that can be.) 3. Wait - no - I mean 4. Answer the phone slowly as if waking up from a dream. Look around at everyone elses purses, then excuse yourself by complaining that your 5 year old grandchild changed the ring tone again and you couldn't possibly recognize the sound. Then add: "And he thinks Siri is his imaginary friend. Its complicated." 5. (This one is a bit more complicated so I will break it down into steps. A. Answer. B. Drop the phone. C. Pick it up and put it to your ear and speaking as softly as you can say "What? Are you joking? No - really?!!! Check the numbers again." Hold your breath here. D. (Optional). Drop your phone again. E. Raise your fists above your head in triumph and shout "We won the lottery!" F. Sit down very calmly and resume embroidering. This will help me navigate sticky phone situations in the future but if I'm feeling tired or shy I'll turn it off at the door. |  A voodoo doll works well for those in class who have to put up with people suffering from CPCD. |
Mia culpa....
