Howdy

Now that I have been in Washington for a little less than 2 weeks, have a general mastery of the metro system, aware of the social code Washingtonians adhere to, and an understanding of the national mall, I now feel like a resident and no longer like a tourist. In these 2 weeks I am numbed to fact that politicians are sharing metro cars with me, that I walk by embassies on my way to class, and at any moment I am within 200 feet of a homeless person. I am now unimpressed when I see a Pentagon badge or when I see a motorcade. Also, what happens is that you slowly began to despise tourist. I look down at tourist because they annoy me. They do not understand that they must stand on the left of escalators, and walk on the right. They do not know when to cross the street, and then stop without warning right in front of you, to take a picture or because they have no idea where they are going. What results is that I have slowly become that rude city slicker, the one that taps his foot, or says “Excuse me” and begins pushing. I feel like they are now the hyenas or vultures, who muddle with my Serengeti. Although that is the case with tourist, I am the hyena or vulture that muddles up Chwat and Company. This was my first week at work, and I have never been so overwhelmed. Last summer I went to New York City with my dad, and I noticed professionals would were still in their offices, or just getting out of work, at 7-8pm. I was initially shocked by that, but my dad and I talked about it and he said what it is takes to succeed. Because of that, I for the last year, promised that was how I would work in the corporate world. Now that I am here, I finally realize how easy it is to do that, because of the work load, and how hard it is to fight the urge to leave. At Chwat and Company I research, help promote, and work continuously on bills that people should put through Congress. I would have gone into greater detail, but I signed a confidentiality agreement. So I can finally say the following words, I am not at liberty to say. What I can talk about, however, is my TWC class; which is a no joke class. I am taking a class called, “Immigration and the Contemporary Debate” and it is going to be interesting. The only downside is that I will have to carry the mantle of Conservatism. In my class there is nothing but college liberals, which means completely green (green as in the environment and marijuana) students who believe the government can solve all problems. Now, I know some people will probably say, “Orlando, just let them say it and keep your head down.” But, I am in the most political city on the planet, and this city was made of arguments, for arguments, and by arguments (Thanks Lincoln.) So argue I will.

I wanted to write a note to my family. You all have been such a help. Sandra, thanks for your help, you are an amazing sister and my hero in so many ways. That Pryor is on fire! Veronica you have been just as amazing. Thanks for your constant support. Soon we will take a spill on the hill. I love you. Mom and Dad, I cannot express my love enough. You guys are my rock, and I love you so much. I will call you all very soon.