jason evans

An Open Letter to the Previous Owner of My House...

To Whomever It May Concern:

You are an idiot. Everything you ever did to these houses stretches the words "fix" or "repair" beyond anything reasonable. If you still own tools. Give them away or sell them. You don't need them. They are of no use to you.

I assume by most of your "handiwork" I have uncovered that you are on drugs. You really should check yourself into a rehab center. Not only is it a threat to you and those who love you, but you tend to create problems, immense problems for others... even after you've been long gone.

If you aren't on drugs I will give you one thing, you're creative. Whether it be structural, decorative, plumbing, or electrical it never makes sense, commonly leads to more problems, but it certainly is always unconventional and creative... although, I use that term loosely.

Lastly, I hope we do not ever meet. I believe in non-violence and from time to time call myself a pacifist. But upon meeting, I am certain to reflect on the incalculable cost and pain you have caused me, and I have no idea what I might do.

Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Jason

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illustration by Sam Flores
My son is a huge superhero fan. Last time we were in San Francisco, we found a shirt his size with an illustration of several popular superheros as children by Sam Flores. I've tried to keep up on his stuff from time to time. When I saw this piece to the left, I felt a connection with it and it sparked a few thoughts in me...

Personal finances seems to be one of the most argued over issues within marriages. For Brooke and I, this is certainly true. Growing up, I remember my parents arguing about money quite a bit. This tension often increases for couples who are homeowners.

Today, a homeowner may find themselves owing more than their house is worth. You can end up feeling tangled up in a constant mess of home maintenance and projects that often end up costing more than people figured into your budget when you decided you could afford to buy. At times, Brooke and I have felt constrained by our home mortgage–binding us to a lifestyle that doesn't measure up to our dreams or ideals... Suddenly, your home owns you, to paraphrase Tyler Durden. Coming to this realization is what I like to call, "Waking up from the 'American Dream [Nightmare].'"

This sense of being "trapped" adds a huge stress to relationships. I find a lot of strength in my life through my relationship with Brooke. Her love for me gives me endurance in chasing my dreams and remaining faithful to my convictions. I want to protect and nurture what I have with her.

So, how do those of us that are idealists balance relationships and mortgages with our ideals?

I would love to hear your thoughts.

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