Across facebook, I have seen different stories of children with advanced, and unattractive, hearing aids that surround their entire ear and temple. What many fathers and mothers have done in response is gotten a tattoo of the same hearing aid to make their child feel more comfortable, because a sleeker, less 'embarrassing', option isn't available. One big environmental change that was made to assist people in wheelchairs was adding ramps to every sidewalk in Boston. It was simply a slight ramp, but it has made commuting much easier for these people. My friend bought me a little fan for when I get sweaty while I embroider (which usually leads to me being angry), and whenever I turn it on I am reminded of him. And the fan goes in the USB slot of the embroidery machine! 

I was surprised by the truth that the article touched upon technology's assistance in our socialness as humans. It allows us to check out, or distract ourselves purposefully, to avoid public confrontations. Technology can also be used inversely, which really showed me that the scope of debates around technology are much more than utilitarian. Another was in the solution for certain people with physical disabilities: with the gestural jewelry. I was surprised by how much emotion and conviction can be put across in the 'guarded gesture'—or crossing your arms—and how profound it can be to have that gesture added to your life through technology. Finally, I was interested in the environmental changes that were suggested for elderly walkers in parks, for example. The article made the point that not exoskeletons aren't always practical, or desired, and simple additions or modifications in the environment can provide enormous aid to those who need it. 

I disagreed with the stance that the article took on the path for the future of these technologies and how they lead to interdependence. It claimed that the only way to have conversations about the needs and desires for interdependence is through the creation of objects that 'raise and suspend questions'. I believe that complicated public conversations simply need to happen with education of the masses and aiming to reduce ignorance on the topic. Simply creating objects that seem to raise more confusion isn't the only path to creating a movement to solve this wide and somewhat ambiguous issue.

My favorite device was the sewing machine. I embroider in my basement, and I understand—to a degree—the same feeling of loneliness and desire to work alongside my friends when I'm there alone. The machine is simple, artistic, and emotionally practical. 

4 things to remember: Person first phrasing! It is important to put the humanity of the person before the label they've been given. People of color, person with diabetes, people with disabilities. Don't jump to the conclusion that someone needs help, because they may simply be processing a challenge more slowly, or want to complete it on their own. Ask questions if it seems right to. Respect the golden rule, and use common sense. The more nervous you are, the more likely it is you won't act like yourself, and that will only make things more awkward.