Japhy guy - yah, he's got his stuff together. Now, to be him, that'd be super - true, he's not making seven figures a year; true, he's not mentioned in People or Money magazine; true, he's not earning postdoctoral degrees at ivy-league academic institutions. However, he's H-A-P-P-Y! He does exactly - not more, not less - but exactly what he wants to do. He's always exploring, geographically, academically, metaphysically, and theologically. His life is fulfilling the definition of life. Ryder, simply, is a Dharma Bum - one whose purpose in life is to be a "bum." One who travels to and fro on the slightest impulses, one who supports himself frugally, or not at all. Job? Sure, whenever. Mate? Sure, whoever. Goal? To Be, Now. He has realized the true essence of life, to do what seems (is?) right. He does not concern himself with extraneous issues - no, he doesn't put up a brick wall between himself and Society, no, he is not naïve or ignorant, but he expends his energy on personally important issues and aspects. I have been trying to find more space on my finite slate. I have been trying to find another color of chalk to join my accustomed stubs. I would still like to be well-respected in my community, learn as much as I can learn, have money to do and see what I'd like, and form friendships that last throughout my days. Perhaps there are just other ways of achieving such goals. For if 20th century life is a car, don't get pulled along. Be a ryder.