The Stubborn Bastard Pair

In my current situation my eyes have been opened to the subject that humans are never satisfied or content. It’s this drive to better ourselves, it’s a curiosity to learn and understand, it’s our nature to adapt and evolve.

I knew this since I was young, but for the first time I see this complex spark in my self in my current state through my boots.

Yes work boots, the two objects that allow you to move just about anywhere, the pair of ware which warms in the cold, the couple that match and lace with professionalism, the boots that tell people I am a blue collar type of person, that kind of boot.

The History: in my ten years of construction I have worn two pairs of work boot. Both pairs have done well dealing with the cold, the heat, the rain, sleet, etc. of weather, but also chemicals of concrete, adhesives, clean products, etc., also to mention the motion of myself. It’s amazing how things break down when you move it or contact it with another object. Think of a tire. So what I am saying is a work boot is tough and worked.

They are hard to wear after eight hours of work. At times I find myself taking them off while I drive home. A moment in time I do enjoy, any worker would vouch to that notion. They are hot with a minimal amount of moisture. The laces are tight from the strangling motion of my walk. They angrily stare back as I sit for break relieved to give my feet a break. Think of a locker room. So what I am saying is a work boot is function only with nothing to hide.

Now my point: I am unemployed so my boots sit vacant. I respect them because they have been with me every step. They show the wounds of work with small tears and undone threading. The color is mixed with the colors of the earth, and yet they keep going with more years of consistent effort.

So now they are just foot ware due to my current situation. Something they never knew or understand, but in the process they are fashionable with their scares. They say “I have been going long before you got out of bed. I have been kissing the earth while you brushed your teeth. I know the effort it takes to earn money, while you steal it from un-educated people in your comfortable office with penny-loafers telling your story.”

Foot attire tells people our story, where we have been, what we have experienced and who we are. Even if we are trying to become someone better. I am trying to find a more comfortable job which is easier on my body but I will always respect my boots and where they have led me.

“I want to work not sit by the door while the daylight wastes away.” The Stubborn Bastard Pair.