"Dreaming of a better world"
Imagine waking to the clatter of feeders and the steady warmth of your brethren beside you, framed by metal bars just wide enough to lie down but not to turn around. The floor is firm slatted concrete by design, you ponder if the planners could've measured out something kinder. You perk up at a soft voice, still delight in a scrap of straw when it appears, still carry a bright, social curiosity that no enclosure could ever contain. If humans could build a world so organized and industrious, surely they can imagine one gentler too — one where an intelligence like yours is met with open air, and a fresher, freer tomorrow.
Monchi, the goofy pug
Monchi is the goofy pug in the movie, The Mitchells vs. The Machines. He is a lovable and loyal companion, often providing comic relief. However, his importance to the family is a pivotal part of the story. That is what life with pets is like and I'm thankful to have mine.
Kitty drinking boba
I like boba. The large variety of flavors and the fun texture of tapioca pearls make for a delightful treat. I also have a cat at home that loves me very much. His presence in my life brings me joy and comfort.
Rubber ducky on a laptop
Software engineers are often plagued with problems that require in depth analysis. It is joked that a programmer should "rubber duck debug", i.e. quietly explain to oneself what problems you're facing. In the thorough re-counting of your situation at hand, many people find the solution.
Patrick Star and his ten-gallon hat
In a classic episode of Spongebob, Patrick is a good friend and partakes in traditional Texan activities to try to help his friend get back on his friend's good side.
DW knowing what true power feels like
In a classic episode of Arthur, his younger sister gets a library card.
Vowel Chart Glasses Wipe
I wear glasses. I thought a glasses wipe made perfect sense as a practical item in my tin wallet. Then it became simply a question of what print to have on it. I decided on the vowel chart, a tool that was useful during my undergraduate degree in linguistics.
Cow being abducted by UFO
I find paranormal activity fascinating. Seeing it interact with absolutely normal activity is very interesting to me.
Meap (from Phineas and Ferb)
Meap is an alien from a planet possessing infinite cuteness. However, his language differ from the boys' and translation is difficult. Luckily, he is able to break into his emergency translation mustache (made in Georgia).
SoBe
SoBe was a delicious beverage that briefly existed. It came in various flavors and was nearly perfect until it was acquired by Pepsi and absolutely destroyed by the capitalistic machine. It's demise greatly shaped my political beliefs.
Silly Goose
Self-explanatory. I am a silly goose.
Travel-sized Bob
Bob's Burgers is a fantastic, character-driven show. In one episode, the son explores what life as his father would be like.
Baby Bart
Ay caramba! My mother didn't want me watching the Simpsons as a child. She was afraid I might learn to be violent because Homer strangled his son. However, its dense political humor shaped who I am as a person and rebelling against her unfounded overprotection also played in a role in who I am as an adult now.
Copaiba Essential Oil
My wife gifted me an essential oil kit once. It has provided me great joy as a mood-setter and creativity outlet. As I explored the hobby more thoroughly, I found myself gravitating towards the classics (such as ginger, eucalyptus, etc...) but I found an esoteric staple in copaiba. A plant that grows in the rainforest and reminds me of rain.
Roller Coaster keychain
As a child, I feared roller coasters. Getting over my fear of them was one of the most exhilarating stages of my life. It truly reminded me that life is a ride and I should enjoy it.
Playful keys
Keys are one of the most important tools in a person's life. Psychologists often suggest that children play with "concepts" safely. A set of colorful keys is a powerful metaphor for safely preparing oneself for the risks of life.
Tea
Tea is a beautiful beverage. Infinitely diverse. Useful for aiding digestion, caffeination, or relaxation.
Love note
My wife is an infinitely creative and loving woman. Including a memento from her was obvious and the greatest pride I could possibly have.