As I began my day today a thought just hit me.
When I was dating back almost 4 decades ago, long distance was expensive. I would phone, and keep the comments short. Every second counted and the count on every second could be measured in money!
With the new cell phone plans, we are able to spend a lot of money to get long distance and other amenities. When, a decade ago, I first heard that “communications technology” cost over $100 for some people, I was shocked. With more than one cell phone in many families, the cost can run much higher today.
I have tried to find ways to combat this cost. I still maintain a land line which can be used by multiple people. I have an inexpensive long distance package. I pay per minute for cell phone use. I pay for a relatively inexpensive internet access.
I give people the number of home and work phones – those are constant costs. I find free wireless for my data access when I am away from my home. I don’t talk long on my cell phone – which is exactly what I used to do with long distance.
Funny how we talk about long distance no longer being costly – but at the same time our “communication” costs have increased. I wonder what the next new cost will be?
Yup, the old adage seems to still be true: the more things change the more they remain the same. (oh, except for the costs which seem to continue to rise, as you pointed out.)