A bunch of drivel. Pass it on.
When email was new, I'd get one of those "Answer these questions and then forward this to everyone you know, including the person who sent it to you" forwards and I'd respond.
When email was ordinary, I'd get one, change some of the stupidest questions into something less stupid and send it back to the person who sent it to me.
Now, when I am dismayed by the lack of original writing that is transmitted by email, I read the survey, perhaps comment to the sender on a point or two and delete it.
I've wondered why these questionnaires can't be worthwhile or at least funny. Who cares who was the last person someone 500 miles away from you spoke to on the telephone? Why not a survey that asks questions that might solicit useful or thoughtful responses?
1. What words from a teacher can you still hear in your mind's ear?
2. Briefly describe one family heirloom you treasure.
3. Besides hanging up, what's your favorite quick response to a telemarketer? Have you used it?
4. What's one item on your grocer's shelves you'd miss if you moved 1,000 miles away?
5. Did you ever wish you had a different first name? If so, what would that name be?
6. Who's your No. 1 hero in American history?
7. Who's your No. 1 hero in world history?
8. Note a trait that your partner or closest friend has that you especially value.
9. Money is suddenly no object. Where are you going on vacation?
10. What are three websites (besides your email provider) that you usually check when you're online?
When email was new, I'd get one of those "Answer these questions and then forward this to everyone you know, including the person who sent it to you" forwards and I'd respond.
When email was ordinary, I'd get one, change some of the stupidest questions into something less stupid and send it back to the person who sent it to me.
Now, when I am dismayed by the lack of original writing that is transmitted by email, I read the survey, perhaps comment to the sender on a point or two and delete it.
I've wondered why these questionnaires can't be worthwhile or at least funny. Who cares who was the last person someone 500 miles away from you spoke to on the telephone? Why not a survey that asks questions that might solicit useful or thoughtful responses?
1. What words from a teacher can you still hear in your mind's ear?
2. Briefly describe one family heirloom you treasure.
3. Besides hanging up, what's your favorite quick response to a telemarketer? Have you used it?
4. What's one item on your grocer's shelves you'd miss if you moved 1,000 miles away?
5. Did you ever wish you had a different first name? If so, what would that name be?
6. Who's your No. 1 hero in American history?
7. Who's your No. 1 hero in world history?
8. Note a trait that your partner or closest friend has that you especially value.
9. Money is suddenly no object. Where are you going on vacation?
10. What are three websites (besides your email provider) that you usually check when you're online?