Letters Home from "Occupy Wall Street"

Sep. 21 – Dear Mom and Dad, “Occupy Wall Street” is fantastic. The energy here is absolutely amazing. I haven’t felt a part of something this big since Phish played that free concert at our campus’ “Make Clothes from Hemp” rally. Everyone here can sense that we’re on the verge of real change and it’s inspiring to see how effective non-violent political movements can be. It does kind of suck sleeping on the ground, but what are ya gonna do?

Love,
Trent

Sep. 28 – Dear Mom and Dad, it’s been a while since I had a decent meal, but my enthusiasm remains high. It’s been a little disheartening to see and hear about altercations that some of my fellow protesters have had with the police, but hearing about other “Occupy” movements in other cities around the country, and even the world, only strengthens our resolve.

You might wonder what it is we do here all day, but believe me, the time flies. There’s lots to choose from. On most days, someone shouts things at a big group of us and then we repeat in unison what that person just shouted. During other parts of the day, those of us who can drum, do so. Those of us who can’t drum, do so as well. And my hands are beginning to cramp from all the finger waving, but the unity that it generates makes it all worthwhile.

Don’t forget to feed Mr. Glub Glub and try to change his water every week.

Love,
Trent

P.S. The matter of our “plumbing problems” is totally getting overblown in the media.

Oct. 1 – Dear Mom and Dad, the plumbing problems are no longer overblown. In fact, I think it’s fair to say they’re now being underblown. Wow, what a difference a couple of days can make. It’s actually the b.o. that’s overwhelming everything. You’d think that a few days of rain would help the problem, but it’s only added a mildewey smell to our group.

But at least we’re not getting tear-gassed.

Love,
Trent

Oct. 4 – Dear Mom and Dad, good news! My hygiene concerns have been alleviated, at least for the short term. Shane came to the park and agreed to watch my tent so I could use his apartment to shower. It created a bit of stir, though, as some of those within earshot didn’t approve of me leaving. One guy was fine with it as long as he could use the shower too. Shane was not up for that, so the guy jammed his finger into my chest and shouted, “You’re not a true occupier! Share the wealth, man!” Oddly enough, I think he’s the one that isn’t a true occupier. I’m pretty sure he was living in the park long before the protest started.

At any rate, I smell a whole lot better.

Love,
Trent

Oct. 9 – Dear Mom and Dad, it’s been a rough couple of days. Cliques are starting to form between those who can make clever signs and those who can’t. Even though I lack cardboard and the ability to come up with brief, biting quips about Wall Street employees, I had hoped that my large supply of Sharpies would be seen as valuable. Apparently, though, yellow was a bad color choice.

This of course follows on the heels of getting ostracized from my group for leaving to take a shower, and Dad admitting that he flushed Mr. Glub Glub. Needless to say, my mood has somewhat diminished.

By the way, if I get any mail from the student loan office that has “Third Notification” stamped on the envelope, just toss it. They don’t get serious until the fifth notice anyway.

Love,
Trent

Oct. 29 – Dear Mom and Dad, sorry I haven’t written in a while. I keep waiting for something significant to tell you about. I’m not sure if there’s some kind of collective event or tangible concessions that we’re all waiting to see before we go home. I keep hearing messages that emphasize “empowerment” and “change” and “the 99%,” but it seems that most people are focused on the hacky sack elimination tournament at this point.

Judging from recent progress, it’s pretty clear that I’m going to miss Ted’s Halloween party. That is always the party of the year. Surely we’ll be done, though, by Thanksgiving (if not, say “hi” to Grandma for me). Even more than that, I hope all of this has wrapped by Black Friday. I’m really hoping to get the latest Call of Duty when it goes on sale.

Sorry I’m not texting or even just calling more, but I’d hate for these Sharpies to go to waste.

Love,
Trent

Nov. 5 – Dear Mom and Dad, it looks like I may have to give up my post down here at the park. Craig has threatened to fire me if I don’t show up to work on Monday. I can’t believe he doesn’t appreciate our efforts to improve the plight of the average citizen, and to convince Washington to stop cowing to, and start taxing, giant corporations. Not to mention trying to get our leaders to focus on putting Americans back to work. He’s such a douche.

At least I’ll be home for Thanksgiving.

Love,
Trent