. . . I was completely and utterly absorbed with an article on healthy eating. Hearing a noise, I stopped and waited for it to be repeated. Yes, my phone was ringing, bursting my bubble of concentration.

Answeri ng the phone, I hoped it was an important call.

"Hi. I am calling on behalf of the Pets of America (a fictious name). We have several new products and would like to send you some samples if you just answer a few simple questions. Does your cat enjoy sleeping in the sunshine?"

"Excuse me, but I don't have any pets."

"Well then, do you have a dog, goat, snake or alligator?"

"I have no pets. I don't want any free samples."

"Surely you have friends with pets. Wouldn't it be fun to surprise them with free samples?"

"I have no pets. I don't want any free samples. Good-by."

Now back to my magazine and, oh, what was the topic? Once again the phone rings. This time a courtesy call for my husband, but they'll call back at a more "convenient" time. All I need are a couple of fundraiser calls to complete my afternoon. Maybe, I'll give my article one more chance.

It wasn't meant to be. Another phone call needed my attention. This time at least it was my daughter reporting on silly things the grandchildren were doing. I was pleased and delighted to hear every word. My article certainly wasn't more important than getting information about the family.

The phone is a most valuable and necessary instrument of communication; I'd be lost without it. However, I do appreciate when the technology is used wisely.

May your day be filled with pleasant conversations with delightful friends from ringing phones.