Orlando's Blog Team Entry

Orlando's Entry:

A semester ago, the thought of being in the nation’s capitol, as an intern, would have been met with an incredulous laugh. And even now, when I tell myself I am going to Washington (or Warshington, as John McCain calls it), I have that same laugh. However, even though I am still unconvinced that I will be spending 10 weeks at the headquarters of our nation, I still am planning out my weekends. And my excitement builds with each museum, restaurant, and memorial that I am able visit. In my search of places to go and people to see, I have started to notice a few similarities between Washington and my own state, Florida. Being that I am a Floridian I am use to a couple things, bad driving, blue hair, beaches, and beautiful bodies on those beaches. Now, those things won’t be found in Washington; however, what Washington does have is old people. Washington is the nation’s capitol, and it is filled with hundreds of politicians, who are pretty old and pretty gray. (Barock Obama and Nancy Pelosi are the exceptions.) While this is the case, Florida continues to be the retiree capitol of the world, and is filled hundreds (of thousands) of old people as well. Thus seeing them will give me a sense of home (so at least I won’t be home sick.) On top of that, another similarity exists. Washington and Florida can’t decide anything. Everyone witnessed the 2000 election, and everyone is witnessing Washington now. Thus, that similarity is quite stark. Lastly, and more seriously, both are rich in history. Florida is home to America’s oldest city, and its history is spotted with Indian, Spanish, and American involvement. As for Washington D.C. well…there is no need to explain the capitol’s history. Although, I poke fun at the similarities one important thing remains. Everyone, from all walks of life, from all parts of the country, should be able to identify with something in our capitol. If America is indeed a melting pot, then our capitol should be also. Thus, my anticipation regarding this adventure is not only based in wanting to experience an internship, but to experience the different subcultures that exist in America (and consequently its capitol.)