The number 51.
51 has been worn on the uniforms of great athletes such as Randy Johnson, Ichiro Suzuki, and Dick Butkus.
In '51, Robin Williams, Bob Geldof, and the UNIVAC I computer were born. It was also the year Ferdinand Porsche, Bill Barilko, and Shoeless Joe Jackson died.
However, for me, the number 51 will have a special memory. For it is that very number which was on the odometer of the new vehicle I took ownership of on Friday last. I'm used to seeing 5 and 6 digits in use on my previous vehicle's odometers, 2 digits is almost confusing. When I turned the ignition on my spotless 2008 Honda Odyssey, the first place I glanced was the odometer. I knew I had to soak it in, commit it to memory, experience the moment.
But new cars do not stay new forever. I'm sad to report that last night, while driving along Anderson Deerfoot interchange, the odometer displayed a frightening sight …. "0000099". An instantaneous feeling of terror came over me. It occurred to me that those moments of a two-digit odometer reading were soon to be over. I stared at the odometer as I drove, weaving in and out of my lane, causing a barrage of horns and middle fingers to be directed at me. Finally, it clicked over. I let out a deep sigh. At least I get more time to enjoy a 3-digit odometer.
I also realize there will be more heartbreak: the first paint chip, the first windshield crack, the first "need to clean". But I'm bound and determined to enjoy the moment.
So long as I keep the vehicle away from the Riverbend area, I should be okay.
By the way, the word "Odyssey" comes from the ancient Greek word "Odysseus" meaning "chick magnet".
4 comments:
Are we going to be hearing about your 4 digit, 5 digit and 6 digit odometer turnovers too? I'm already hitting Refresh (except the button is worn out from some of the other sites I visit).
I'm beginning to get desensitized to the odometer, just like the constant barrage of the ladies' phone numbers left under my Odyssey's wiper blade.
You better take it back to the dealer and have it checked out. I'm thinking there is some kind of chemical leak in the cabin that can cause hallucinations.
more like 'barrage of soccer mom's / dad's phone numbers'.
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