The Coolest Things I've Done: A Journey Through Personal Adventures and Community Impact
Life is a journey filled with countless adventures, both big and small, and some of these moments stand out as the coolest things one has ever done. For me, the coolest things have ranged from teaching a horse to skate to revitalizing a comic book series, and even standing up for our community during a challenging time. Let's explore these stories and see what makes them truly unforgettable.
Equestrian Adventures: A Unique Urban Experience
Living in the Pac-12 city, where keeping livestock like horses and mules is still allowed, has brought about some of the coolest experiences in my life. My sister and I, along with four other families, maintain a small equestrian community along the river that separates our district. The animals have the freedom to traverse both urban and rural areas, which they generally take advantage of. Together, we ride them down to the river and into the downtown and university area.
This isn't just a pastime. It's an opportunity for us to window-shop, enjoy treats, and interact with locals, all while enjoying the company of our horses and mules. This practice dates back to the 1960s and 70s when we would go to the nearby drive-in movie theaters. Today, nostalgia has taken on a modern twist, ending our adventures with a stop at the drive-through fast-food restaurants like Dairy Queens.
One of the coolest parts of this endeavor is not having to clean up after the animals. This unique privilege is a testament to the rich history and cultural acceptance of these animals in our community.
Teaching a Horse to Skate: A Unique Bond
While equestrian adventures are typically associated with riding, one unique experience I had with my horse stands out. I taught it how to skate. It sounds like a quirky hobby, but it created a special bond and provided a fun and quirky activity for our family. I can imagine the sheer amusement and laughter it must have brought, and it remains one of the coolest things I have done.
Invigorating Comic Book History: A Fan's Quest
My passion for comic books led me to take on a unique and memorable project when I was around 13 years old. I was one of the original members and later the board director of the Legion Fan Club, which aimed to reignite interest in DC Comics' Legion of Super-Heroes. When the series was discontinued, we worked tirelessly to get DC to revive it, resulting in a dedicated book and the return of Jim Shooter to the comics world, where he became the Editor-in-Chief at Marvel.
These actions not only breathed new life into a cherished comic book series but also demonstrated the power of fan engagement and community involvement in shaping the future of journalism and entertainment. It was a thrilling experience that I cherish to this day.
Impressing the World with a Clever Comeback
There are moments in life that showcase one's quick thinking and cleverness. During a visit to my stepfather in the hospital, we stopped at a drive-thru for fast food. When we were met with out-of-stock small drinks, my impulsive and clever response, "Well if you only have two sizes then the medium is by definition small," amazed my kids. They saw me as a hero that day, and while I warned them about the potential consequences of antagonizing food service staff, their opinion of my quick wit and creativity was cemented.
This comeback might seem trivial, but it highlights the importance of quick thinking and the impact such moments can have on those around us.
Impressing My Wife with Language Skills
One of the most impactful moments for my wife was when I translated for a customer at a rental car counter. Speaking Spanish proficiently, which was a rare occurrence in my life, impressed her beyond measure. This experience was particularly memorable as she was surprised to see me using my language skills so fluently in a high-pressure situation.
This act of kindness and problem-solving truly demonstrated the immense value of linguistic skills and cultural sensitivity in the face of challenging situations. It was one of the rare times I managed to impress her, and the memory continues to be a source of pride.
In conclusion, the coolest things I have done paint a picture of a dynamic and multifaceted life. Whether it's through equestrian adventures, comic book revival, a clever comeback, or cultural contributions, these experiences shape not only my personal journey but also the lives of those around me.