Do-over
Do-overs. They don't come around often in this life. So when they do, you take full advantage of them.
There's part of me that views my move back to Austin in this light: a chance to go back and do all the things you missed the first time around. As a 21 year old, I was often too insecure, too drunk, or too wet behind the ears to really take advantage of the city around me. It's happened to us all. That's why we grow up.
For instance: Last week, we went to the State of the State Address, given by none-other than failed Presidential candidate and coiffured gun toter Governor Rick Perry. Even though I firmly believe he is one of the worst elected officials in the United States, there was a certain thrill to playing witness to the event. The gallery quickly filled as State representatives filled the floor and congratulated themselves (as politicians do so well). A guy from CBS news sat beside me, glued to his phone and his tablet. Health care proponents erupted in protest halfway through the speech.
Given how much I thought I had experienced in the fair city of Austin, it was hard to believe this was my first visit to the Capitol while government was in session. Of course, the lege is only in session 140 days every two years, so they don't offer much when it comes to an open schedule. The excitement of youth can sure get in the way of things though.
I always wanted to be involved in radio. As a student, I even once went to a general meeting for KVRX - the radio station at the University of Texas. I didn't know anyone in the room, which can be so unnerving as a 19 year old. I also didn't know how to get active. That opportunity slid by and it was always one of my regrets as a student.
It turns out KVRX isn't not the only gig in town. KOOP 91.7FM, a community-run radio station, recently had a call for volunteers. Needless to say, I'm well on my to redressing previous wrongs. Would I like my own show? Could I have my own show? Yeah and yeah. I'll let you know when I go live. Got any show ideas?
The city of Austin is not particularly historic, nor is it architecturally stimulating. It has something though! You may have to engage an active imagination as you stand in a sea of parking lots and picture the mansions that once stood there... but there's a story everywhere!
After pouring through the less-than-robust city history section of the Austin Library, I took to the streets, combing through the freedman's towns of Clarksville and Wheatville. The old Victorian houses of Old West Austin. The back alleys in the areas surrounding the Capitol. The Abner Cook mansions. History is there. History I never knew existed.
Maybe you just need to grow up a little to appreciate it. Good thing do-overs exist!