Lost and Found: Courtesy of Google Maps
The urge to trust technology feels fashionable these days, yet last week it nearly turned me into a laughing stock.
A simple drive across town became an unplanned tour of rural Uganda, all guided by a confident blue line on Google Maps. I had not packed snacks, patience, or courage. Thank the heavens I had just enough fuel for both the trip and the panic.
Back in the day, if traffic jammed and I chose a shortcut, I copied one reckless taxi. Off road meant dust, potholes, and regret, yet at least I knew I was following human foolishness. Repairs were expensive, yet the story made sense. This time, my guide was silent, digital, and very sure of itself.
The app sent me off the main road into paths that looked like footnotes of civilization. Data drained. Fuel dropped. Hope followed close behind. Soon I was parked in a remote village where even my Luganda felt foreign. I wanted to ask for help, yet I could not explain how a phone, a satellite, and misplaced confidence had delivered me to their doorstep.
Moral of the drive. Before trusting that smooth blue line with blind faith, think twice. Some villages are kind. Others turn a shortcut into a full life lesson. And Google never pays for your repairs.