We're Not Computers
By Glenn Dromgoole

[Glenn Dromgoole, a longtime Texas newspaper editor in Fort Worth, Bryan-College Station, and Abilene, is writing a book of essays on the little ways people's lives can make a difference over time. He lives in Abilene.]

A computer can do amazing things. It has incredible memory. It can store millions of facts, figures and names in its "brain."
But, you know, a computer can't appreciate the beauty of a sunset.
It can't know the joy of hearing a newborn baby's first sound.
It can't experience the excitement of catching a fish or hitting a home run.
It can't take pride in watching a child walk across the stage and receive a diploma.
It can't hope or believe or imagine or be spontaneous.
It can't know the pain or failure of disappointment, but neither can it know elation or satisfaction or contentment or happiness.
A computer can't feel.
It can't care.
It can't be generous or kind or compassionate.
We can, and that's the difference.

Updated Wednesday, January 03, 2001