Chapter 1: The Evolution of Communication Devices

In the past, communication technology was vastly different from what we know today. I remember a time when my family relied on a single landline phone that was permanently affixed to the wall of our dining area. We had only three television channels and didn't own a microwave until I was nearly an adult. My young granddaughter was astonished to learn that I didn’t have a tablet at her age. “How did you manage without one?” she exclaimed. (Just wait until she discovers I also navigated life without a computer!)

The invention that stands out the most to me over the past 56 years is undoubtedly GPS technology.

This reminds me of the “geographical dyslexia” portrayed in Anne Tyler’s novel, The Accidental Tourist—a condition I can relate to deeply. I genuinely believe I struggle with an undiagnosed form of learning disability when it comes to navigating my surroundings. Prior to the era of GPS-enabled smartphones, I often found myself lost, which made me hesitant to drive long distances alone.

To cope, I would prepare index cards with detailed directions to the places I frequented, even noting how to return home on the reverse side.

Section 1.1: Navigating Social Events

My first job after college was as a society editor for a small weekly publication. I attended numerous events, from tea gatherings hosted by the Law Wives to gourmet dinners organized by the musical club before an opera performance. At a charity golf tournament organized by St. Jude, the mayor kindly drove me around in his golf cart, introducing me to all the key individuals I needed to photograph.

I was tasked with capturing images of influential figures, yet I often felt out of place in such upscale environments. Having grown up in a small town of just 200 residents, I had little experience interacting with community leaders and politicians. Networking was not my strong suit; my shyness often led me to take photographs and then quickly retreat, without realizing I could have leveraged those opportunities for personal growth.

Subsection 1.1.1: Finding My Way in a New Environment

The most challenging aspect of my job was not the interactions but rather locating the venues for these events. Having just moved to a larger city, my sense of direction was poor. I often found solace when events were held at the Hotel Pere Marquette, identifiable by its large, illuminated sign. I could make my way there without much trouble, though returning home was often a different story.

Each time I faced a new venue, I ensured I had comprehensive directions at the ready. Even with those precautions, the anxiety of getting lost lingered.

Chapter 2: Freedom Through Technology

With GPS technology, my confidence in navigating unfamiliar places has grown tremendously. I would not have ventured out so freely without it.

It’s interesting to note that my mother possessed an incredible sense of direction; once, she drove us to a relative's farm with just the memories of a childhood visit to guide her. Unfortunately, I did not inherit that talent.

I also struggle in large buildings. When my son was around three or four years old, we frequently visited a sizable structure for appointments. Each time, he would need to use the restroom, and I would invariably lose my way back to the appointment room, requiring him to guide me.

Thanks to my smartphone, I now enjoy greater freedom of movement. I no longer take this technology for granted, as I spent too many years trying to decipher handwritten directions while driving.

Initially, I relied on a second-hand Garmin before upgrading to a smartphone equipped with GPS. I look forward to the day when I can have a vehicle with integrated GPS, but for now, my phone serves me well.

What do you consider to be the most significant invention of the past 50 years?

The first video, "7 Inventions That Changed Humanity Forever," explores groundbreaking inventions that have reshaped our lives, including GPS technology.

In the second video, "20 Inventions That Changed The World!" the discussion highlights transformative innovations, showcasing their impact on society and daily life.