In a way, we all live in a movie-like world. If your home is in Mongkok or Yau Ma Tei, it is like being on a triad film set. If you work in my office, then it is like being in Mission: Impossible.
For me, the whole of last week was one long sci-fi horror movie. I shall call it The Virus. Voice-over: 'When the virus hits your home, nothing escapes, not even your pet. Especially not your pet.' Opening scene: I am studying instructions on how to install new computer software. (30 minutes later) I am still studying the instructions on how to install the new software that costs $1,500.
(Another 15 minutes passes) I am shoving the program into the machine without the instructions.
Next scene: The computer refuses to work. A scream cuts in. Mother runs into the room, crying: 'Chin-chin has not pooh-poohed for three days!' Chin-chin (which translates into 'money money' in Cantonese) is my pooch. Suddenly, I realise the Lasha Apso and my laptop computer have much in common.
One minute they are up and running, the next both go down with a bug in the system. In Chin-chin's case, it is his digestive system. But more on the canine storyline later.
The computer appears to have contracted a mysterious virus from the $1,500 software. Time to call my friends for help. That's what they are for, aren't they, friends? Always there to give you advice and reassurance at times of crisis.