Hands-on Living...

Technology has made many things easier in our world today, but some of these conveniences make me uncomfortable. It sounds strange when I tell people there are things technology shouldn’t have given us, yet we often overlook these issues because we enjoy the ease of these inventions.

I appreciate that we can travel the world easily compared to when our forefathers used camels and horses, spending years on trips that now take less than 12 hours. We can communicate with people across the globe in the blink of an eye, and these advancements bring more than just ease. Still, some conveniences don’t sit well with me.

On the other hand, just because something doesn’t sit well with me doesn’t mean it’s useless to the world. I respect people’s opinions about every invention and wouldn’t condemn anyone for overdepending on technology.

In response to the first HL prompt this week, I think having robots at home to do chores, take care of kids, and other tasks makes no sense, even though I love technology. I’ve seen videos of robots working in restaurants, hotels, and airports, which makes sense.

It’s awesome to showcase that technology, but having them work for me at home just won’t do. The first time I learned robots could work at home was after watching iRobot, a movie by Will Smith. I was fortunate to see it about two decades ago and wondered if robots could do everything shown in the film. It was fascinating, and I thought about having one when I grew up, but later, those robots turned chaotic, causing great havoc in Chicago.

Although it was a fiction movie but it forced me to have a second thought about robots and I concluded it’s not a smart idea. As I grew older, I realized I’m not the type to even want a house help, so why would I need a robot to do things at home?

Practically, one reason I avoid living in a large space or owning excessive possessions is that I want to manage cleaning with my family. We’d have few things to do and can split chores or work together. I don’t know if it’s my nature or upbringing, but I enjoy doing my chores.

Back then, my mom would split work, which is why every family member can handle any chore. Cooking, laundry, cleaning, and everything else doesn’t feel like stress—we gladly do it. Spending time together doing chores has helped us bond as a family, as we have deep conversations while working, strengthening our ties.

Also, the satisfaction of doing chores like cooking and laundry myself is unmatched, so I wouldn’t trade it for any ease or convenience. We’ve all learned from doing these tasks, and it’s helped us survive tough situations multiple times. Without doubt, I want to teach my kids these skills so they can use them too, but having a robot do my chores would mean I can’t teach them as I want.

We can’t bond in the kitchen, sharing tasks like blending, cutting, chopping, and others. It just doesn’t work for me to leave my kids in a robot’s care—it makes no sense. As I mentioned, some people find the things I dislike very comfortable, which is fine.

I’d like to mention that doing chores is also a form of exercise within the house, and I wouldn’t be surprised if obesity sets a new world record if these robots become widespread, accessible, and affordable.

In conclusion, I appreciate everything technology does, but having a robot in my home doing my chores or catering for my kids doesn’t sit well with me. Thinking about it feels like the robot might eventually take over my life, leaving me with nothing someday.

It reminds me of my boss who avoids automatic cars, preferring a manual because it keeps him in control of the wheel at all times. He’s involved in everything that happens with the car, so he can make drastic decisions when needed.

What I’m driving at is simple: I’m putting myself in danger, not because a robot will fight me one day, but because it could gradually steal life from families if domesticated.