Thing 16: Describe an electronic device in the future that you won't know how to operate

Originally posted to Facebook on June 11th, 2013.

Thing 16: Describe an electronic device in the future that you won't know how to operate

Jeremy figeted in front of the screen as he waited. The look of confusion on his face was met by a wry grin from the salesman to his left, arms smugly crossed over his bright blue shirt.

"So um, what's supposed to be happening right now?"

His grin widened. "Use your imagination."

He alternated his gaze between the man and the screen a number of times, utterly unsure of how to proceed. Before him was only a television, much like the one he had at home. There was no sensor, no console; nothing out of the ordinary at all. He stood in the middle of a quiet show floor as a jaunty Christmas tune played in the background. By all accounts, nothing should be happening, despite the representatives outlandish claims to the contrary.

"Is there a controller, or..." His voice trail off as the salesman's expression remained unchanged. With a disappointed sigh, Jeremy looked back at the screen. It didn't even appear to be on.

This was probably just a game, created by the bored staff to watch naiive customers squirm. Determined to prove them wrong, he focused all of his resolve on the television before him, his face contorting and the vein in his forehead popping angrily out of place.

Suddenly, there was a click, and the screen turned on. The shock of so simple an act caused Jeremy to jump a full meter off of the plush carpet. His eyes remained wide, unblinking, as he turned slowly to the still-smiling salesman. "Did I do that?"

His arms uncrossed as his smile widened. "Yes sir! Welcome to the new age of technology, my friend!" He walked over the the screen and placed a casual arm on top of it. "This is the latest and greatest in display technology. It contains sensors which can detect clear and precise thought commands from anyone tuned to its operation. This display model will accept commands from anyone, but if you buy one for your home you can restrict the receptors to specific mental characteristics."

Jeremy's mouth worked, but was unable to produce sound. To think that such a thing was possible left him completely aghast. "That's..." He trailed off, unable to find an adequate explanation.

"Thought-provoking?"

The self-satisfied grin of the salesman grew even more smug as Jeremy nodded ever so slightly. The amazement he felt was almost enough to trump the poignant yet completely horrible pun he had just experienced.

Almost.