I call customer service to hear someone say my name

Dear Delyara, I am sixty-nine and live alone. My children are in other countries, my wife died seven years ago, and most friends have become voices I hear only at Christmas. Sometimes I call companies with questions I could answer online because the agent begins by asking my name and then uses it during the conversation. “How can I help you today, Mr. Wilson?” “Is there anything else, David?” I know the politeness is scripted. I know they are paid to speak to me. Still, hearing my name inside another person’s voice changes the room. Last week, I called the electricity company to ask about a bill that was perfectly clear. The young man was patient. He asked about the weather while the system loaded. I nearly told him my wife used to complain about cold houses. Instead, I thanked him and hung up. Then I felt ashamed for using someone’s working day to borrow five minutes of human attention. Tonight, the house is silent again. I have placed the phone on the table and promised myself I will not call anyone unnecessarily. I keep looking at it.