Car Insurance

What ever became of the “service” in our much heralded “service economy?”

Try going to one of those multi-state banks these days. They love to advertise service, but check how long you have to stand in line.

Try calling any large company, store or government agency. Some computer starts out saying: “Your call is important to us.” Then, the firm shows how important you are by making you push a bunch of buttons and then wait.

Try getting a prescription filled at a large chain pharmacy, and see how the clerks talk to each other while you wait.

Try getting help to find something in a discount store, or getting help with a do-it-yourself project at super duper home center, or doing anything more complicated than showing your ticket and checking luggage at an airline counter, or calling a government agency for information, getting help over the phone when your computer refuses to listen.

Try waiting for a phone call from a big business broker to tell you when you should sell a stock, if you are not a big investor, but don’t hold your breath. Try going to a hospital emergency room, or a Health Maintenance Organization if you need help quickly. Try asking a chain restaurant waiter or waitress how to find a tourist attraction.