Mon 19 Mar 2007
On the freeway on Sunday, I spotted a white semi beat-up late 80s-to-early 90s model Chevy Pontiac Grand Prix to my right. Thinking it may be, on the off-chance, a coworker of mine, I looked into the driver’s window as we passed and saw a very content looking man in his late 40s or early 50s, a stranger to me. It struck me that he may have had this car for decades, he may have purchased it used, but the expression was of someone having a great time in this old car. I instantly thought at him admiringly, “You’re a better person than me.”
Or maybe something AMAZING just happened, like he just got some or received great news???
No, he didn’t look excited, he looked content. Like he fully appreciated having a car, any car, that took him from Point A to Point B effectively, and didn’t have issues about feeling embarrassed or self-conscious being seen in this old beat-up car. At least that’s how I saw it. Maybe I’m just projecting my guilt, cuz it’s so unlike me to buy something so extravagant (my Lexus) without a need first.
uh, Pontiac made the Grand Prix. Just sayin’.
Thanks, Bat. I’ve corrected the error. I don’t know much about American cars.
Cindy…I’d look at him through those same eyes. I’ve got too much pride (and need to get to work without the thought of possibly NOT making it!).
I don’t see how being content with an older car, or a newer car can make anyone a better person.
I don’t think that the two are really related, except for the ones that go into big debt to afford that nice car and therefore will severely affect their future.
I say live within your means, but live your life and enjoy it. If you can do something and it makes you happy… why not do it?
All right — I’m officially confused.
For some reason the older generation is just happy and content with the old beater we drive, but my generation and the one before me, worry how people will view them when they’re having to drive their old beater around. All we want is to look cool!!! All the old people want is just to get around, because they are thankful they haven’t had their keys taken from them, and they are still able to drive…
hmm…to just be content with the world we live in!!!
I like that reasoning, Jalopy. I’m just a victim of my generation, that’s all it is! 🙂