There is a fatality about all physical and intellectual distinction, the sort of fatality that seems to dog through history the faltering steps of kings. It is better not to be different from one’s fellows. The ugly and the stupid have the best of it in this world. They can sit at their ease and gape at the play. If they know nothing of victory, they are at least spared the knowledge of defeat. They live as we all should live – undisturbed, indifferent, and without disquiet.

- The Picture of Dorian Gray
by Oscar Wilde, 1890

All art is quite useless.

Chapter One down… 19 to go.

In an effort to prove that the American Dream isn’t dead just yet, Adam sets off with $25 in his pocket and the clothes on his back. His goal: an apartment, a car, and $2500 in the bank one year from the day he sets out.

I am going to start – almost literally from scratch – with one 8′ x 10′ tarp, a sleeping bag, an empty gym bag, $25, and the clothes on my back. Via train, I will be dropped at a random place somewhere in the southeastern United States that is not in my home state of North Carolina. I have 365 days to become free of the realities of homelessness and become a “regular” member of society. After one year, for my project to be considered successful, I have to possess an operable automobile, live in a furnished apartment (alone or with a roommate), have $2500 in cash, and, most importantly, I have to be in a position in which I can continue to improve my circumstances by either going to school or starting my own business.

- July 24th: Setting Up at
ScratchBeginnings.com

I have nothing but respect for this type of venture – I did the same thing, with similar results.