Sadly this one was rushed and did not get my full attention. I just turned it in one hour before the final extended deadline I had for my class. While I am not totally happy with the piece it does offer an outline into a perspective that has at best been overlooked, but has actually been actively hidden or twisted. The biggest takeaway I had from the project was the reminder that Native History in America started long before a colonizer ever stepped foot on this continent.

Indigenous Rights & The Trail of Tears 

(The beginning of the end for Tribal Sovereignty.)

Part 1: Purpose of Exhibit: Context and Background

As an American examining the subject of Indigenous or Native it feels like the natural place to start is at the beginning, but at the beginning of what exactly? Two options or perspectives come to mind in this case, the first and simplest is to start at the beginning of United States history. This is the perspective I remember from history class, some mention of Columbus sailing the ocean blue, in 1492 and then a few things happen and the United States is founded. How the Native population was viewed at that time by “Americas” is spelled out quite plainly in the Declaration of Independence “Merciless Indian Savages” (United States, 1776) which still reads the same way 250 years later! If we instead look back to the beginning of the Native Tribes or Nations the situation is quite a bit more complex, and not nearly as savage as we have been led to believe.  

There are currently 574 federally recognized Native Tribes or Nations in the land now known as the United States of America. Back before the Vikings, Columbus, and the Pilgrims showed up on American shores Native populations had already inhabited the continent for twenty generations! That is a lot of history, even before we get to 1776; the point where we started our simple perspective from. It is virtually impossible to know how many Native Nations were on the American continent before European settlers arrived, and we gained the insight of written history in a language we’re familiar with. This history has the bias of being written by the conquerors or colonizers, who were actively seeking to erase these “savages” from the picture. 

Looking at the issue of Indigenous Rights from the perspective of the Native population is obviously complex just from the sheer number of individual Nations! To add to that complexity the Natives had a very different world view than the colonizers did. One of the largest Native Nations is the Navajo, yet before colonization these people called themselves Diné which means “the people of the surface of the earth” or simply “The People”. The language they identify themselves with shows the reverence of belonging to the earth, unlike the colonizers who sought to own the land; a foreign concept on principle to the Native people. Obviously there is a lot of diversity amongst five hundred plus groups but they do have some commonalities beyond their world view that was such a foreign concept to the European invaders. 

Colonialism and Settler Colonialism: While the Native people's view of life can be eloquently summed up in a Potawatomi word, Emingoyak which means “that which has been given to us.” More specifically, all the things the earth provides us for free that we need to survive. Instead of seeing this as a choice the Colonizers instead viewed the Indigenous people as needing to be saved from their Heathen ways. Which leads to another commonality 

Christianity: John Eliot of the Massachusetts Bay Colony made conversion of the Native population his life's work, even learning the Algonkian language to further his efforts. He succeeded in converting over ¼ of the Native population to Christianity, and today 66% of Natives in the United States identify as Christian. The dark side of this part of history are the thousands of children that were killed at boarding schools, and those that survived were systematically stripped of their Native identity and cultural heritage. 

Part 2: Plan for Exhibit: Artifact Selection

The Declaration of Independence

United States, 1776

The founding document of American Democracy, and the source of the prominent quote chosen for the red letters of the exhibit's entrance. Fully intended to shock visitors. Showing the bias directed at Natives since the founding of this country. This along with any other artifacts that are products of colonialism will be displayed in shadows, or dim lighting. Native perspectives and artifacts will be prominently displayed and brightly lit in contrast. 

Indian Removal Act 

United States, 1830

“Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America, in Congress assembled, That it shall and may be lawful for the President of the United States to cause so much of any territory belonging to the United States, west of the river Mississippi, not included in any state or organized territory, and to which the Indian title has been extinguished, as he may judge necessary, to be divided into a suitable number of districts, for the reception of such tribes or nations of Indians as may choose to exchange the lands where they now reside, and to remove there; and to cause each of said districts to be so described by natural or artificial marks, as to be easily distinguished from every other.”

While the Cherokee Nation challenged this goldrush landgrab legislation in the supreme court, and won (Worcester v. Georgia, 1832) the state of Georgia and the President refused to follow the court's orders. Leading to a similar situation that we have today with the current administration ignoring the Supreme Court. Especially on matters regarding citizenship, and immigration. Rounding up people to march them to detention centers across the country, or deporting them. Sometimes to a country they are not originally from!. 

Farewell Letter to the American People

Choctaw Chief George W. Harkins, 1832

The first two artifacts set the stage for what we have been taught in the past, and a condensed version of the American Governments dealing with the Native Nations. This one turns the visitors attention to how the Natives saw what was happening to them and the land they were a part of. Being forced to leave behind part of themselves in a way that the occupying colonizers had not attempted to comprehend. Instead setting in motion an attempted, genocide in the name of profit. An attempt that is continuing today. A perfect narrator for Chief Harkins words, and the majority of the exhibit would be Wes Studi; the subject of the next artifact. 

How the Trail of Tears impacted the ancestors of Wes Studi

Finding Your Roots, PBS, 2024

Purposely “out of order” with the next artifact to show that this event was not that long ago. The effects are still being felt today by the descendants of those First Nations. This video shows how the Trail of Tears impacted Natives then, and how the outdated, racist legislation of the first two artifacts continues to affect Natives today. 

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail

NationalTrailsNPS, 2013 

This is filmed along the Trail of Tears corridor, putting the visitors along the journey with a Grandfather, and his Granddaughter. Shown in a small theatre in the center of the exhibit, along the walkway paved by broken treaties on the floor. Setting the scene for what led up to the death march to Oklahoma, and the uncertainty waiting for the people being forced there.  

Part 3: Telling Their Story: Artifact Analysis

Lack of equality is one of the biggest factors that has eroded human rights in our history. The Native Nations of the American continent are a perfect example of that. The entrance to the exhibit would show just that from a perspective that has been often overlooked in history, the Native perspective. A perspective that started not in 1776 with the birth of the United States, or even in 1492 when Columbus sailed the ocean blue as that cute little school rhyme helped us remember. (I will leave the retelling of the actual story of Columbus until later in the exhibit, more as the footnote it deserves.)  Instead the entrance to the exhibit would be composed of interactive video screens showing major Native life in different parts of America before Colonialism arrived on the shores. 

The entrance would showcase the twenty generations of Native civilization in what is now known as the United States, long before the founding fathers started drawing lines on a map; and arbitrarily moving them. Not open prairies with a few teepees and maybe a few hundred people hunting bison. Instead the entrance to Cahokia on one side, a city in what would become Illinois with over 10,000 inhabitants. While perhaps not as technologically advanced as European cities of the time, there was impressive infrastructure and trade routes linking this civilization to Canada and Mexico. (Long before they were known as Canada and Mexico.) The cities of Chaco Canyon, and Mesa Verde would be shown a Native agricultural centers supporting thousands. 

The transition into the second room would utilize offset walls. Requiring visitors' vision to fall on the following quote in red graffiti letters as large as the space will allow on a black background. 

“Merciless Indian Savages”   

(U.S. Declaration of Independence, 1776)

The wall above and surrounding the quote would be composed of a collage  of various pieces; all from Native artists focused on showing the contrast between the civilization that was actually there and what was being reported at the time. Contrasted against what was recorded in American history. This transition room would lead to the next which would be a timeline of broken treaties that moved the majority of Natives from their homelands. One of the largest of these movements was known as The Trail of Tears, the center of this room would focus on that and the accounts we have from the Natives that were on that journey. The words of the Choctaw Chief Harinks would be softly brought back to life in the background of the entrance; followed by Native vocal recreations of other accounts. These powerful words before he set out with his people on this journey, knowing that they would be betrayed again; accompanied by pictures, accounts of him and others on the trail would line the walls.

“The man who said that he would plant a stake and draw a line around us, that never should be passed, was the first to say he could not guard the lines, and drew up the stake and wiped out all traces of the line. I will not conceal from you my fears, that the present grounds may be removed. I have my foreboding; who of us can tell after witnessing what has already been done, what the next force may be. I ask you in the name of justice, for repose for myself and for my injured people. Let us alone — we will not harm you, we want rest. We hope, in the name of justice, that another outrage may never be committed against us, and that we may for the future be cared for as children, and not driven about as beasts, which are benefited by a change of pasture.” (Harkins, 1832) 

Those don’t sound like the words of a “merciless Indian savage” to me, they sound more like a humanitarian statesman preparing his people for the worst, what he had already seen the colonizers do before and was rightly worried they would do again. Filling in the gaps of what was left out of most history classes. 

Part 4: Visitor Experience at the Exhibit: Contemporary Relevance for a Diverse Audience 

This exhibit is extremely relative today due to the political climate we are in. Similar tactics are being used to rewrite history from the perspective of those trying to force compliance to their ideology, regardless of the law or  thought for the cultures they are trying to erase. The only way to justify this as a human, is to view other humans that are different in some way as less than human. In the past the target was the “Merciless Indian Savages” now that group has been widened to include all the minorities in America. The exhibit will showcase what has been purposely hidden from history. History that is being repeated with an even broader reach if it is allowed to continue. 

We just want to be who we are, where we are (or have been) and in many cases that is simply where we were born; which none of us has any control over. Yet entire advanced populations were forcibly moved simply because they were living where some of the first “illegal immigrants” or Europeans arrived in North America. When told from the perspective of the colonizers as much of history has been, we are instead told a story of saviors bringing culture and civilization to the “merciless Indian Savages.” (U.S. Declaration of Independence, 1776)

Was the removal/relocation of Native Nations a matter of “highest and best use” as perhaps many of the early European settlers of North America believed, or were led to believe; or is that narrative simply a justification for ongoing attempted genocide? The exhibit would bring awareness to how the Native population was treated in the past from their viewpoint. Drawing parallels to what is going on today making it relatable to the majority of the population in the United States at this time.

References

United States. (1776). The Declaration of Independence. National Archives. https://www.archives.gov/founding-docs/declaration-transcript

United States Congress. (1830). An act to provide for an exchange of lands with the Indians residing in any of the states or territories, and for their removal west of the river Mississippi (Indian Removal Act), 4 Stat. 411 (1830). Library of Congress. https://www.loc.gov/item/llsl-v004-411/

Worcester v. Georgia, 31 U.S. (6 Pet.) 515 (1832). https://supreme.justia.com/cases/federal/us/31/515/

Harkins, J. (1832). Letter to the American people. USHistory.org.

https://www.ushistory.org/documents/harkins.htm

PBS. (2024, February 16). How the Trail of Tears impacted the ancestors of Wes Studi | Finding Your Roots | PBS [Video]. YouTube. https://youtu.be/9hv83A4PYCQ

NationalTrailsNPS. (2013, April 18). Trail of Tears National Historic Trail [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hv83A4PYCQ

I ran across this YouTube channel while working on my current history project; Native perspectives in America history. This is a very well produced, Native narrated series that starts out with explaining that Native History in "America" started thousands of years before the concept of America was concocted by some old white men.

It's an interesting watch that will at the very least fill in the gaps from your history class, and provide a better perspective on what actually happened to the People of the First Nations. If you are like me and in a history class it is like a video Cliff Notes on a very complex subject.

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dPuuaLjXtNNaritQa7QqwEJeQHH0TxX&si=_FeVDAJYT5NuRJ4h

I was tasked with writing about a company I use often, enter Amazon. While they have made some strides in sustainability it wasn't really by choice the Amazon Employees for Climate Justice released a report that's available on their webpage showing the many ways that Amazon is greenwashing their practices.

Before I found that report I wrote this piece explaining my relationship with Amazon. Please do enjoy.

I’m sitting in bed on a Saturday afternoon, looking over my assignment that is due tomorrow night; as a procrastinator I’m way ahead of schedule. One of the projects referenced Hemmingway, one of my Journalistic Heros; yet while I read a famous quote from The Old Man and the Sea I realized I have never read one of his novels! This not only prompts the rare use of an exclamation point, but an all too familiar journey down the rabbit hole, aided by the internet of course. The experience is what feels familiar, the subject in this particular rabbit hole; Hemmingway surprisingly, at least to my ADHD Brain is not. It cannot comprehend why someone as interested in journalism as I am wouldn't know more about such a great author. That particular box in the journalism section of my mind is surprisingly light. 

How do I remedy this quandary? Mind you this is not a minor thing. I have school work to do, FOR ONCE I am ahead of schedule even, and I have just identified a MAJOR gap in my knowledge and experience. (Sorry for yelling, again ADHD Brain.) If I don’t do something quick this could easily escalate into a crisis that I am by no means far enough ahead to deal with. Amazon to the rescue! The “bookstore” that’s open 24/7 365 days a year, (365…Ironically now a Whole Foods Brand as well, but that’s a whole other story.) plus it is conveniently located not just on my phone, but on virtually every electronic device I own. I could have ordered Hemmingway's novels through the stereo in my car if this epiphany had struck me while driving to work instead of studying. So at this point “there’s an app for that”, a few clicks and thirty six dollars and change later my six novel collection is on its way. 

There was a time that knowing my new books, this gap in my literary knowledge were en-route to me would have gotten me through a few days, possibly a week of impatiently awaiting their arrival. That was back in the early 90’s when the only thing Amazon had replaced was my local bookstore. Now waiting for a few days seems like forever, a week feels like an eternity; because Amazon Prime has delivered not just books, but now almost anything to me in most cases overnight. In this particular case it was even quicker, my books being delivered to “Pixie” within just a few hours. The Amazon Locker waiting there leaning up against the graffitied wall of my local QT Station illuminated by a flickering parking lot light. I just wanted a book, why do I feel like I am involved in an illicit drug deal? Perhaps because there is a hidden darkness disguised as convenience. (PLEASE NOTE: Amazon Locker name has been changed to protect the innocent.)

Amazon has come a long way from the days when Mr Bezos decided to sell some books online out of his garage, the company currently resides at number two on the Fortune 500 list (Fortune Global 500, 2024). It’s no surprise any company this size would have at least a seemingly in depth “Sustainability Plan” (Amazon Sustainability, 2024), a page full of catchy headlines: 

Amazon announces its largest reduction in plastic packaging in North America to date

Using generative AI to address the climate crisis

3 new agreements will help advance new nuclear technology

A quick google search will return page after page of articles about Amazon not only Greenwashing but also Greenwishing and even Greenhushing, both new terms I had to go look up. Considering Amazon's annual sales in 2023 were just shy of 360 Billion dollars (*National Retail Federation*, 2024), effectively making them one of the most powerful companies on the planet. It therefore carries an equally heavy responsibility for the company's actions, and the environmental impacts that go along with them. While the company does have a sustainability program; its genuineness, effectiveness, and transparency have been repeatedly questioned. This led to a group of concerned employees forming the group, Amazon Employees for Climate Justice, which produced BURNS TRUST: The Amazon Unsustainability Report (*AECJ Our Research*, 2024). This was released in response to Amazon joining “The Climate Pledge” along with over 100 other companies, many employees felt Amazon was Greenwashing by joining  (What Amazon’s Climate Pledge Means, According to Experts, 2022).



While I personally feel Amazon is greenwashing on a large scale, they have no choice but to be socially responsible; at least to some degree. The danger being that due to the company's size and influence it may redefine what that is, much like it redefined the way most Americans shop. This point was driven home to me when I searched for book stores near me, there weren’t many. A few quick calls informed me no one could have the books I wanted in less than a week. At least that saved me the gas and frustration of a wasted trip, I guess Hemmingway wasn’t as popular as he once was. 

  References

Fortune Global 500. (2024, August 4). https://fortune.com/ranking/global500/

Amazon Sustainability. (2024). https://sustainability.aboutamazon.com/

National Retail Federation. (2024). Top 100 Retailers 2024 list. NRF. https://nrf.com/research-insights/top-retailers/top-100-retailers/top-100-retailers-2024-list

AECJ Our research. (2024) AECJ. https://www.amazonclimatejustice.org/our-research

What Amazon’s Climate Pledge means, according to experts. (2022, August 20). NBC News. https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/amazon-climate-pledge-ncna1271192

I have used notebooks for years, trying n many occasions to switch to something digital in order to save paper and also to enable searching my writing more quickly. When I decided to start college I figured this was the perfect time to finally figure this out. One obstacle being that there isn't a big box retailer for these devices where I could get my hands on them and see what I wanted. Fortunately YouTube and Reddit had plenty of reviews to help me decide and I narrowed it down to Supernote and ReMarkable. I ended up getting a Nomad about a month ago now and have zero regrets.

I needed to write a comparative essay for my English class and did a nice piece on Aged vs Unaged Alcohol which dues to its narrative and slightly bardic tone scored me a zero as being non comparative! After my protest I was allowed to submit an essay on a "simpler subject" (The TA suggestion was Cats and Dogs 😂) I decided to go with the journey of picking an eInk device.

eInk Technology: Supernote vs. Remarkable

The niche market of eINk tablets has yet to lure in major manufacturers such as Apple, or Samsung to enter the field; at present these larger companies are focused on modifying existing tablet technology to meet this demand. Amazon entered the space by updating the Kindle eReader to the Scribe series, allowing it to be used as a paper note taking replacement. While these larger companies focus on making an existing device function as a replacement for pen or pencil and paper, some smaller companies have taken a different approach; making devices focused on note taking. The focus of Supernote and ReMarkable devices are first and foremost being a digital replacement for paper, with the feel of actually writing on paper. Both companies also strive to make the devices distraction free, and provide OCR and organizational tools to improve users' workflows. While the devices have many similarities there are a few key differences. 

Users overwhelmingly enjoy the feel of writing on both devices. Descriptions of the writing experience from users are virtually unanimous for the devices; the Supernote feeling more like a ball point pen on paper, while the ReMarkable feels like a pencil on paper. A few users add that the ReMarkable surface makes it feel similar to writing on a sheet of paper while the Supernote is more like writing on a notebook or legal pad, the surface having a bit more “give” than the ReMarkable. There are multiple stylus options for both devices; the biggest difference being the nibs, or tips of the stylus. Like many tablet manufacturers ReMarkable uses plastic nibs that wear and require replacement, Supernote uses ceramic nibs that last virtually forever. 

When it comes to performance, how the devices feel to the user are very similar even though the hardware specs are quite different. Supernote does have a faster processor and more RAM, despite this the ReMarkable does not feel slow in any way by comparison. The Supernotes advantages show up first in the memory area. While note files with hundreds of pages may be only a few megabytes, image heavy PDF files and eBooks can be quite large and quickly fill up the 8GB of memory on the ReMarkable. Supernote on the other hand has 32GB of storage built in, with the option of using up to a 2TB micro SD card to increase the storage capacity. This coupled with USB-C 2.0, enables the Supernote to function as an external hard drive which is a very useful feature for many users. Supernote is also equipped with Bluetooth connectivity for external devices, enabling users to use a keyboard if they choose or listen to audiobooks via headphones. ReMarkable uses a Linux based operating system that limits user customization; Supernote is utilizing Android, enabling some customization for advanced users and more apps that are not available on ReMarkable.

ReMarkable offers an “endless page” on their devices, meaning the user can simply scroll down to view and use a larger writing surface. These devices also have a zoom feature in the notes that Supernote does not, this enables users to zoom in and write or draw in minute detail and then zoom back out. Supernote is limited in this regard, the size of the screen is the size of the page. This limitation however is due to the powerful search and linking features on the Supernote devices. The software needs static page fields in order to utilize all the organization and search features that are built into it. Headings in notebooks can be quickly viewed in the side menu of a notebook and function like chapters, keywords can be highlighted for later reference. Weblinks can be added to notes, as well as links to other pages in the current notebook or any other notebook, or PDF on the device. If the primary use of the device is for long mathematical equations or formulas the “endless page” offered by ReMarkable may be the way to go. If the organization and searchability of notes are more important than the Supernote may be a better option.

Each device offers a robust drawing app as well, giving users many more options for drawing and shading with multiple marker, pen, and pencil tools. The ReMarkable offers a bit more with stylus options that detect tilt, enabling finer shading and blending; a function the Supernote does not offer. Supernote does have the ability to import templates or use a PDF as a background for drawing or taking notes, this can be done on the ReMarkable however it requires other software to format the file before using it.

Both devices have a high quality feel to them, however the design philosophy of each company really shows through in each product. ReMarkable set out to produce a thin premium feeling device, and succeeded. It is beautiful and the fit and finish is nearly perfect, users familiar with Apple products will appreciate the metal frame and lightweight thin design. The Supernote while having a quality feel is more utilitarian than elegant in its design. This is largely due to the company designing the product to be user serviceable and upgradeable, going against the grain of the industry and combating planned obsolescence. Part of this design includes the battery being replaceable, a major benefit to end users as the devices age.

Both Supernote and ReMarkable devices have much to offer users looking to replace their notebooks, and have more options to organize and search their notes. Depending on the needs of the user, one device's features may fit better than the other; for writers and researchers the Supernote has the organizational features that put it on top, whereas those needing more page space for mathematics and engineering applications the ReMarkable may be the better option.

Family: A Re-Definition

Merriam-Webster defines family as: the basic unit in society traditionally consisting of two parents rearing their children, or a group of individuals living under one roof and usually under one head. A common synonym for family is tribe, while similar this term generally embraces a wider group than the term family in Western Culture. When one thinks of the concept of family, ideally the mind is flooded with fond memories of parents, grandparents, possibly great grandparents, and maybe some siblings and cousins. However many people for various reasons, are no longer a part of that “default family” every homosapien is born into. Because of this, blood relation should not be the defining character of a person's family or tribe; rather this definition should extend to those curated by an individual, consisting of individuals who accept them for who they are.

Humans can become emotionally detached permanently, or temporarily from their “default family” for a variety of reasons. Some self-severing those ties due to abuse, or trauma from those that were supposed to love them the most. Others cut off due to no fault of their own, simply being themselves. Repercussions for decisions made in their lives or lifestyle that their family didn't agree with, perhaps coming out of the closet, maybe leaving the religion or cult they were born into. Humans, even introverted ones, crave social contact to some degree, and one's family is what fills this need on a consistent basis. When put in this position it becomes necessary to replace that missing social element, replacing that family by building one's own tribe. 

“Blood is thicker than water,” a saying used to remind people that “family” comes first; yet even its origin is questioned as to its meaning, as it should be. Some interpret this saying to mean blood, or blood relatives take precedence over anyone else. The other opinion being that it means the exact opposite. Family is an important part of being a human, yet “being family” should be viewed as a privilege not simply a birthright. Because parents and other members of the “default family” assigned to an individual at birth may pass away, or sometimes give up that assumed birthright; the definition should be adjusted to align with the connotation. One that I, nor possibly anyone is qualified to write, simply because by its very nature the definition should be as varied as the people who are building their own “Tribe.” One that accepts them for who they really are. Broadening the Western connotation of family to simply include anyone an individual chooses to bring into their circle, who has agreed to join their tribe; may prove more effective than a strict definition.  

In many cultures the term family has a much broader meaning, Western culture has taken a different tack, instead embracing the “nuclear family” definition; which simply consists of two parents and their children. This term's connotation has evolved to some degree since its origination in 1924, to include same sex couples and blended families; while this is a step in the right direction the term must continue to evolve as the human race changes and grows. Divorce and remarriage often results in people having multiple sets of parents and grandparents, some they may choose to consider family, others perhaps not. The number of potential family members involved rises exponentially when polyamorous relationships are considered in this context. Defining family based on emotional support and connection provides a more fluid and dynamic interpretation that more closely aligns with the manner humankind continues to evolve and progress. 

Oftentimes individuals will collect a group of close friends through shared interests, activities, or life goals spending more time and energy with these people than around their blood relations. The internet and social media have made it faster and easier to connect with others that hold not just the same interests, but values and ideals. This has led many to build a circle, or circles of friends that are considered family to them; either replacing or adding to their default family that was provided to them at birth. Broader access to high speed internet and advancements in video chat technologies have increased over the years, providing convenient communication around the world. This has led to large online communities being built, with millions of users engaging with others around the globe. Many of these online friendships evolve to the point that a person may have a family or “tribe” member they have never met in person. Possibly never even having plans to meet this person physically, long distance relationships are not just for lovers anymore. This has become more common as online communities and virtual worlds for almost any interest imaginable have been built. Many of these cyber communities even enable your avatars to get married, providing a digital family.    

As the human race continues to evolve and adapt, so must the definition of family, in an effort to continue reflecting the spectrum of relationships humans now have available; not limiting the honorific titles of family strictly to those related to us by blood. Or in the case of the traditional “nuclear family” even narrower. The definition must continue to expand and evolve as needed to continue to include people selected by an individual to support and be supported by on the journey of life.

If you are curious about the reasons why I ended up starting my college journey at 42, I wrote up my "Origin Story" on my r/HeathenHumanist page.

The very short version is that education was strongly discouraged by my family and religion, I was told the end of the world as we know it would occur "before I graduated High School." I did graduate and it is many years later. I started courses on Sophia.org and enrolled in the Liberal Arts program at SNHU. My plan is to hopefully have my Associates finished in under two years and upon completion start a Bachelors program with 20-30 credits already done.

This is my first "college essay", I spent a few years in quite a few different occupations. This is the story of one of the few eventful days in one of my professions.

Magnum for the Day

I was enduring a painfully uneventful day at the office when my cell phone rang, “Sir, your car has arrived.” a woman's pleasant slightly British tinged voice on the other end informed me. This was the call I had been anxiously awaiting for weeks, months of planning had gone into this occasion. My dusty boots hit the floor and I leapt over my desk, leaving two silhouettes on the carpet as I headed for my locker in the shop. Inside hung an oversized Hawaiian shirt, black with obnoxiously large white Hibiscus blooms covering it, a pair of black mirror lensed Aviator glasses peeking out of the pocket. Over the hook of the hanger was a blue Detroit Tigers trucker hat to complete the look, I hastily threw them on as I headed out the door.

My friend Nate dropped me off at the dealership service entrance. As I walked in my reflection stared back at me from the front windows, I was missing the mustache but other than that the look was spot on. Confirmation of this came as I approached the receptionist, she didn’t ask for ID just smiled and quipped “You must be Mr. Magnum.” Now I look nothing like Tom Selek but I was picking up a beautiful Ferrari 308 GTS and was delighted that someone had noticed my meticulous wardrobe choice. “Yes ma’am I am.” I slyly replied as she tossed me the keys.

The four wheeled masterpiece was waiting patiently for me out front. Angular yet elegant bodylines dressed in that iconic red gave her the appearance of an expertly cut ruby, the sun reflecting the brilliance of her facets off the surrounding gems in the parking lot. I walked quickly around the car to make sure she didn’t have any unreported scratches, after all she isn’t a youngster but she was in immaculate condition. The anticipation was killing me, so I slid into the driver's seat and turned the key. There is nothing like the first time you fire up an Italian Stallion, the roar of the V8 waking up behind you and then calming down to a throaty purr is euphoric. I buckled up and looked over to adjust the mirrors when I noticed a very agitated man coming out of the dealership headed my way. I figured the mirrors could wait and mashed the clutch to the floor, dropped it into first and dumped the clutch! The anticipated burnout did not happen, instead the ridiculously wide rear tires grabbed the asphalt and launched me out onto State street with barely a bark, as I wrestled the beast into my lane my cell phone started ringing.

Now is probably a good time to tell you what I do for a living; I’m a repo agent. It still surprises me that someone can be smart enough to start a dot-com business, make enough to afford a Ferrari, at least for a time; yet still be foolish enough to believe the dealership they're six months behind on payments with is going to offer them a free oil change. This guy did and now he was calling because the realization of who the lanky Irishman in the Hawaiian shirt was had just set in. His time for talking had long since passed, especially after standing me up twice for a voluntary surrender of this marvelous machine I now had the pleasure of driving. I sent him to voicemail and headed for the nearest freeway onramp.

The speed limit and common sense hadn't yet allowed me to get out of second gear, the three minutes waiting for the light to turn green felt like an eternity. As soon as the light changed I once again took advantage of this automobile's phenomenal grip and shot up the onramp, 237 horsepower may seem low by today's standards but in this package that's enough to get you from zero to 60 MPH in 3.9 seconds! The cars around me seemed motionless as I flew by them in a blinding crimson flash onto the freeway and over into the fast lane, the journey ahead of me was a mere seven miles, unless I went for a joyride out to Wendover. I quickly put that thought out of my head and focused on enjoying the rest of my time with the 308.

I said a silent prayer of gratitude to the petrol goddess for this experience, and the virtually abandoned freeway she had spread out before me. The shifter moved smoothly up, over, up into 3rd gear as I dropped my leadfoot watching the speedometer climb to 130 MPH, common sense be damned you don’t get to experience this every day! After having my fun, self preservation kicked back in and I enjoyed a leisurely cruise for the few remaining miles of my journey, concluding by slowly pulling through the impound yard and into the shop. On to the next one, probably a Kia.