Ah, blockchain. The magical word that makes crypto enthusiasts' eyes sparkle and everyone else’s eyes glaze over. If you’ve ever tried to explain blockchain technology to someone over the age of 70, you know it’s no walk in the park. In fact, it might just make those school stress days feel like a vacation.
Here’s how it usually goes:
Step 1: The Introduction.
You: “So, Grandma, blockchain is like a decentralized ledger…”
Grandma: “A what?”
You: “A ledger… like your checkbook, but digital and shared across a network.”
Grandma: squints “Why would I share my checkbook with strangers? Are they trying to steal my money?”
Step 2: The Explanation Spiral.
You start talking about blocks, chains, and cryptographic hashing, only to realize you’ve lost her at "block." Suddenly, you’re deep into metaphors about digital padlocks, bank vaults, and trustless systems.
Grandma: “So… it’s like Facebook?”
You: facepalm “No, Grandma. Not at all.”
Step 3: The Rabbit Hole.
She then asks about Bitcoin, Ethereum, and why her neighbor’s grandson is mining something. You find yourself explaining proof-of-work, proof-of-stake, and NFTs. By now, both of you are confused, and her knitting needles are looking suspiciously like weapons.
Step 4: The Grandma Reset.
Finally, she throws up her hands: “I don’t understand why anyone would trust something they can’t see. I’ll stick to cash, thank you very much.”
And just like that, you’re reminded why some people still prefer envelopes stuffed with cash over a "trustless digital future."
Moral of the Story:
School might be stressful, but trying to explain blockchain to Grandma is a test of patience, creativity, and your will to live. Proceed with caution—and maybe bring cookies as a peace offering.