By: Liz J. Bradley.

“I’m a doctor. I’m here to help.” I’m not a doctor.

My screen displays the message: Repeat input, reassuring tone.

“I’m a doctor. I’m here to help.”

My father was a mechanic. He always said he got his hands dirty so I could keep mine clean. I’m not sure it worked.

Repeat input, confident tone.

“I’m a doctor. I’m here to help.”

My voice trains the robot doctors of tomorrow. What will happen to the human doctors?

Input accepted. Continue?

Not my problem. The fridge is empty today. I click the next task.

“Please remain calm. I’m here to help.”

© 2025. Liz J. Bradley

Liz J. Bradley grew up in a small town in Central New York but followed a career in the theatre that took her from the ocean to the tundra to the Eiffel Tower. You can find her online @lizjbradley.bsky.social.

Posted July 30, 2025.