Is Felon Disenfranchisement Unconstitutional? If it is, do you agree that it should be?

Universal Suffrage is one of the most important social and political triumphs ever seen in the United States and throughout the World. Historically, only privileged, wealthy white men were allowed the right to vote. Now, the vote is deemed to be a basic right of all citizens over the age of eighteen years of age, irrespective of race, ethnicity and gender. The founders of the United States, when writing The Declaration of Independence, believed “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal . . . among these (unalienable rights) are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness . . .   whenever any form of government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or abolish it, and to institute new government . . . to affect their safety and happiness”.  

One section of the community has had the right to vote taken away from them. Any man or woman who has committed a crime and has been found guilty rightly must pay their debt to society by being incarcerated in jail. That to me is punishment enough. I believe it is unconstitutional to punish someone “excessively “in this case by taking their right to vote away.  It is my opinion that the criminal disenfranchisement laws currently on the statute books in forty six states in this country are unconstitutional, contradicting the 8^th,14^th,15^th and 24^th Amendments. The aim of sending someone to prison is to rehabilitate him or her to the extent that they can easily and safely integrate themselves back into society. One essential component of being in society is having the ability to vote – to “have your say” (one of the essential, motivational factors determining the foundation of this country). The notion that criminal disenfranchisement laws are necessary to ensure a safe society and to protect the idea of nothing illegal happening at election times is questionable to say the least.

The Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1791, states “excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed or cruel and unusual punishments inflicted.” In Atkins v. Virginia, 536 U.S. 304 (2002), the Supreme Court of the United States ruled 6-3 that executing the mentally retarded violated the Eighth Amendment's ban on cruel and unusual punishments. In the ruling it was stated that, unlike other provisions of the Constitution, the Eighth Amendment should be interpreted in light of the "evolving standards of decency that mark the progress of a maturing society." This same approach has to come into effect when making decisions regarding voting rights.

When debating felony disenfranchisement, it is difficult not to disagree with Pamela S Karlan, J.D., the Kenneth and Harle Montgomery Professor of Public Interest Law at Stanford University, when she says the question the Supreme Court debated during the Trop versus Dulles Case (Trop v. Dulles, 356 U.S. 86 (1958) is relevant when discussing the “pros and cons” of felony disenfranchisement laws.  “Is disenfranchisement consistent with the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition on cruel and unusual punishment?”   It is because a person has been punished and after having served their time in jail. They must be granted the same rights again as any other person. There is a similarity to the situation regarding an ex-felon and Albert Trop, who was deemed to have been excessively punished when he was turned down in his application for a passport in 1952.

The Supreme Court’s judgment then, namely “denationalization as a punishment is barred by the Eighth Amendment," as this is "the total destruction of the individual's status in organized society" can certainly be applied to a person who has served their time in jail and then forced to have no say in the running of the country. When, according to Human Rights Watch, the United States denies more people the right to vote because of the existing laws on felony disenfranchisement, laws that can be applied to the most “trivial” of offences, it is time to re-evaluate the laws and repeal them.

In the state of New York, according to the Brennan Center for Justice (www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/jimcrowny ), “more than 108,000 New Yorkers cannot vote because of a conviction in their past. Almost half of these disenfranchised citizens have completed their prison sentence and are living and working in the community.” What is even more intriguing is that “nearly 80% of those who have lost their right to vote under New York’s law are African-American or Hispanic”.   It is important that people like those referenced from New York have the right to vote. Equally, if the 827,000 disenfranchised felons in the state of Florida had had the opportunity to vote in the Presidential Election in 2000, the history of the world could have taken a much different turn.

                It is also unfair to expect people to remain disenfranchised when on returning to society they have no voice and yet have to pay tax. One of the most famous slogans in American history is “no taxation without representation”. It was one of the motivating reasons for the revolution.  Yet it is deemed acceptable for people who are legally in this country to have to pay tax and have no say in how their dollars are used. Surely the time has come for change.

                Global Exchange, an international human rights organization, stated in its online article "Felon Disenfranchisement; Taxation without Representation: End Felon Disenfranchisement," accessed Apr. 5, 2007 from its website votejustice.org:   “Permanent disenfranchisement of former felons, a practice that falls outside of international or even U.S. norms, is an unreasonable restriction that creates subcategories of citizenship in the United States. Ex-felons are expected to contribute to society as gainfully employed citizens, pay taxes and raise families, but their disenfranchisement gives them no say in how those tax dollars are spent, who sits on their children’s school board, or who represents their interests in government.”  This, in my opinion, is against the notion of everything the United States of America stands for. Take Abran Ramirez for example.

He lost his right to vote for life in California because of a twenty year old robbery conviction. He had served three months in jail and also completed ten years of parole. Yet still no vote. No opportunity to say how his state and his country should be run. This is unfair and definitely “un-American”

Another questionable practice is that of plea bargaining. If an eighteen year old first time offender trades a guilty plea for a lenient prison sentence, they could unwittingly be sacrificing their future voting rights. This is wrong on both counts. It is perverting the course of justice and also it allows lawyers the opportunity to misinform their clients in the author’s opinion.  

The Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution was ratified in 1868. This amendment says that “. . . no state shall make or enforce any law that which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty or property without due process of the law . . .”

 This section of the Amendment is known as the “Equal Protection Clause”. No one knows exactly what was going on in the minds of the founders when the Constitution was written. Conversely, the founders could not have envisioned how life would develop in the intervening years. A maturing society in the year 2010 can surely see that this clause clearly can be interpreted in deciding that current disenfranchisement laws are indeed unconstitutional. The fact that the Republican Party in Alabama is opposed to restoring voting rights to ex-felons because “felons don’t tend to vote Republican” shows that Alabama is acting unconstitutionally. In the Washington Post article “Why Can’t Felons Vote?” the statistic quoted that 65-90% of the time ex-felons vote Democrat because they are “traditionally low income, low education or minority status” is further proof that unconstitutional behavior is rife in this country when it comes to voting laws.

 Voting IS a privilege, this cannot be denied. The climate in countries where “the vote” is NOT a given has been clear thanks to modern day media for all to see.  However, states in this country still persist in keeping archaic laws on the books. The argument that felony disenfranchisement laws contravene the Equal Protection clause is valid. For example, in Hunter v. Underwood, 471 U.S. 222 (1985), the United States Supreme Court that ruled the felony disenfranchisement provision of § 182 of the Alabama Constitution as a violation as having been passed into State law at a time when racist leanings were commonplace, contradicting the text in the 15^th Amendment.

Equally disturbing, a report by the Kentucky Commission on Human Rights published by the Brennan Center for Justice, published in 2010, found that one in four African Americans had lost the right to vote. The online article, written by Benjamin Rattner, highlighted the fact that Kentucky “is one of the last two states in the country that denies the right to vote for life to anyone with a felony conviction, unless the current Governor restores the right through clemency powers.”

                Another alarming piece of information emanating from Human Rights Watch’s excellent article (www.hrw.org/reports98/vote/usvot98o.htm ) is that “released ex-felons are not routinely informed about the steps necessary to regain the vote and often believe – incorrectly – that they can never vote again.”

                The process is long and arduous to regain the vote, depending on the state you live in. Then there is the question of raising the necessary finance to actually regain the vote. In Mississippi for example, a recently released felon, who wishes to regain his right to vote must obtain permission from the incumbent Governor in the form of an Executive Order “or get a state legislator to introduce a bill on his or her behalf, convince two thirds of the legislators in each house to vote for it and then have it signed by the Governor”. In sixteen states, anyone who has committed a federal offence is barred from using state procedures to regain civil rights. The only methods open to him or she is to gain a Presidential pardon. How many ex-felons have the financial muscle to be able to afford this process?  This surely goes against everything the first section of the 14^th Amendment states. The report’s findings show that the statistic regarding the number of African Americans that are currently disenfranchised   shows that policies and practices currently being carried out contradict the 15^th Amendment, ratified in 1870.

Section 1 of this Amendment clearly states “The right of citizens of the United States to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of race, color or previous condition of servitude”   Proof enough that what is being carried out right now is unconstitutional.

The 24^th Amendment, ratified in 1964, states” the right of citizens of the United States to vote . . . shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or any state by reason of failure to pay poll tax or other tax” Tax evasion is a crime punishable by prison. It is a person’s duty to pay tax in my opinion. People want the state to provide decent services so they should rightly pay for them in the form of taxes. If they go to prison for tax evasion that is a serious crime. Once again, that is punishment enough. They still have the right to vote. They are still a citizen of this country. Trop v Dulles shows that taking away a person’s citizenship is a “cruel and excessive crime”. That case contradicted the 8^th Amendment and taking someone’s right to vote for tax evasion contradicts the 24^th Amendment.

In 1800 no state stopped felons from voting. Today laws currently active have no real purpose when it comes to voting rights. What is in effect now is something reminiscent of the “civil death” offenders faced in medieval times. The actions of whites in the 19^th century have no place in today’s society and that is why I believe the current felon disenfranchisement laws are unconstitutional.

Works Cited        

The Impact of Felony Disenfranchisement Laws in The United States (www.hrw.org/reports98/vote/usvot98o.htm) 

Why Can’t EX-Felons Vote? Krajick, Kevin Wednesday August 18, 2004; Page A19 www.washingtopost.com 

Jim Crow in New York by Erika Wood and Liz Budnitz with Garima Malhotra

www.brennancenter.org/content/resource/jimcrowny

Kentucky’s Disturbing Disenfranchisement Numbers/Brennan Center for Justice

www.brennancenter.org/blog/archives/kentuckys_disturbing_disenfranchisement_numbers/

Convictions and Doubts: Retribution, Representation and the Debate over Felon Disenfranchisement – Stanford Law Review Karlan, JD, Pamela S.

Did Florida’s Felon Disenfranchisement Laws Cause Al Gore to lose the 2000 Presidential Election? – Felon Voting

www.felonvoting.procon.org/view.answers.php?questionID=000660

The Impact of Felony Disenfranchisement Laws in the United States

www.hrw.org/reports98/vote/usvot98o.htm

America at Odds Student Edition 6^th Edition Sidlow, Edward, Beth Henschen

Simply Wed Teaser - Part Two

Everything’s big in America-even the dreams!

Chapter One – I Want to Be In America

Picture the scene if you would dear reader . . . it’s a wet Monday in August in Winsford in Cheshire back in 1989. A young 21 year old in a job that he doesn't particularly care about, but hey, it’s a job, makes a decision that will affect his life in more ways than he'll ever realize.

That 21 year old was me. My best mate at the time, Bouldy, who was a student at the City of London University at the time, was spending the summer in New York City. He had met someone the previous summer (a lovely girl called Melissa) and was living in the borough of Queens working as a bartender at the US Tennis Open at Flushing Meadows. I’d seen him in Congleton a couple of months back and he’d asked me if was planning to go out to New York at all.

“Don’t know,” I said. “I’ll have to see if I can scrounge the money from somewhere!”

I’d resigned myself to the idea of spending time in New York City being nothing more than an elaborate and fanciful dream. I can’t afford that, not on my wages I thought. Then, that Monday, that wet Monday in August, I profoundly thought, “Sod it I’m off!”

I knew I’d have a roof over my head if I went, as the Jacobsen’s house was big – I’d eventually discover it was three stories – I just needed flight money and spending money. I took the plunge – I got my Credit Card out!

I was pleased to find out that I could get a flight from Manchester to John F Kennedy Airport – where else would I fly to? I thought it was going swimmingly well when the person said to me “When are you coming back?” I told her when.

“Oh, we’ve no flights from JFK to Manchester then, only Gatwick Airport”. Gatwick Airport – that meant an extra spice thrown into the mix – I’d have to end up coming back home via London. “Oh well, all part of the adventure!” I was now of the mindset that I was going and that was that.

Flight booked, I was America bound! I couldn’t wait.

Now at the time, as well as my day job doing the stock and ordering for a small food packing firm I worked part time at the Bulls’ Head Hotel in Congleton.  I was a Glass Collector and occasional Bar Man. I enjoyed my time at the Bulls’ Head and made many friends, some of which I am on slightly more than nodding acquaintance to this day!

The Bulls’ Head was a microcosm of Congleton. I ought to let you know a little bit about my home town. For a working class town, Congleton is a very conservative town. It has had a Conservative Member of Parliament for as long as I can remember. The people are too keen on change and aren’t impressed on anything remotely flash.

We have an ex Olympic Champion living in this town. I went to school with two of her sons. To people I know they were simply “the runner’s lads”. Equally unimpressive was anyone announcing proudly and excitedly that they were going to go to the United States of America.

On Sunday night when I was working at The Bull, I told punters I was going to New York City to visit Bouldy ( he was also known to the patrons of the pub as he’d worked there with me in previous years) on September 23^rd. Was I met with encouraging replies of “That’s great Ed!” or “You must be excited!” No! This was Congleton remember . . .

“What a bloody long way to go just to get mugged!”

Oh well, looking back, what did I expect? This town that had been home to me for over 21 years at the time was, and still is for that matter, a town that hasn't embraced change too well. It’s got better – we've noticed a change in the town since we have come back to Congleton – but there’s a long way to go.

Undeterred, I still kept my excitement for my trip to the Big Apple. I was to fly out on September 23^rd from Manchester Airport . . . that Saturday couldn't come quick enough.

That day Manchester United was due to play Manchester City. Mum said she'd record the game for me so I could watch it when I got back.  I could hardly believe it – I was finally going to the United States of America.

The flight from Manchester to New York is approximately seven hours. I had my Sony Walkman, or the equivalent that I remember getting as a birthday present a year or two before, to keep me company.  It was exciting to travel by myself to somewhere glamorous and exciting as New York City. Don’t get me wrong, it was going to be great to see my old mate Bouldy, but hey, it was New York!

It was during the flight that I had my first encounter was United States bureaucracy. I had to fill out the little green Visa waiver form.  Like a good boy I filled it in, though I was a little perplexed to be asked if I'd had any connections with the Nazi Party between 1933 and 1945 . . . but hey, you can't be too careful I guess.

The flight was landing at JFK Airport. The flight was late, so it was evening local time when I got there. When the plane landed, I was tired but oh so excited.  After the Nazi questions it wouldn't be long until it would be time for more questions, though I learned pretty quickly that you don't mess with United States’ Immigration Officers and Policemen in general.

I have to tell you this would be the first time I‘d ever seen a cop with a loaded weapon. I was standing in line waiting to get through customs, and was getting a little impatient. I’d been travelling for quite some time now and was keen to see my best mate and his girlfriend Melissa.  I was keen to get everything done. Like a good Brit, I was used to waiting in queue but was getting keen to get things moving, so I veered from the post where I was supposed to be.

“Stand by the post!” the Officer bellowed out.  My impression of a shrinking violet was excellent – I returned to the post very quickly and very sheepishly.  My turn came.

“What’s the purpose of your visit?” The Immigration Officer asked bluntly.

“Err, I’ve come to visit a friend who’s over here” I replied, nervously.

“Where is this friend?” Luckily I knew what part of New York I was going to so I had the answers. Little did I know that seventeen years later when I would be interviewed by the US Embassy in London getting my fiancé visa having answers for US government officials would be a good thing.

Eventually, I got through, collected my things and made my way to the Arrivals Lounge. When I went through the doors, I was taken aback by all the people waiting for people arriving from that flight and all the others. The frustrated celebrity in me imagine that this is what it’s like when a celebrity is met by paparazzi at Heathrow, Manchester or JFK for that matter. After all, JEK was arriving at JFK!

At first, I couldn't see Paul or Melissa, but it wasn't long before I recognized that familiar face with his mop of ginger hair.

“Ed!!!” I heard my name being called out. It was good to see friends again.  Paul was with Melissa, his sister Carole and Melissa’s sister Heather. Heather was the spitting image of Gloria Estefan. I have never forgotten that, the famous Cuban born singer was and is a favourite singer of mine.

We quickly got into Heather’s car. Now I was tired and quite easily have gone home. However Paul was keen for a beer so we went out for a drink. As we drove into the city it all seemed so surreal . . . . I was actually in New York City.

I remember sitting in the back seat of the car, taking it all in. Melissa and Heather were quick to point out certain landmarks.

We were driving on 5^th Avenue when they pointed out Tiffany’s; yes the Tiffany’s the jewelers. It was quite a lot to take in. We ended up having a beer – tried Amstel lager for the first time - then going back to the place I would call home for the next week – Cloverdale Boulevard, Queens, New York.

I was to sleep in the spare room in the basement. Sounds drastic, but this was a very nice house. It was spacious and my room had a TV and adjoining bathroom.

Sunday morning soon came. I remember waking up to be met by a tall gentleman who I soon discovered was the Master of the House – Bill Jacobsen, Melissa’s Dad.

“You must be Ed” he greeted me. It must have been strange to have strangers sleeping in your house but they would prove to be genial hosts and made me feel welcome. That Sunday we would be doing something that has lived with me for many reasons. We were going to visit the World Trade Center – yes, the place that eleven years later would tragically be the focal point for the world.

I’ve always love my Sunday newspaper. As a boy we had The Observer and The Sunday People in our household. Now I got my first taste of The New York Times. It’s still, along with The Guardian, my favourite newspaper. Little did I know I was about to read some tragic news, that peaceful Sunday in New York City.

Manchester United had been thrashed by Manchester City by 5 goals to 1!!!!!

I could not believe my eyes! There. Tucked away in a small part of the Sports section of this famous paper was news that my team had been thrashed. Paul phoned his Mum that morning to let her know I had arrived safe and sound. He also checked the result to make sure it wasn't a printing error. It wasn’t - United really had been beaten by that scoreline.

That Sunday we went on a trip round the island. I have fond memories of that trip. It was great fun and it was the first time I ever heard the name Donald Trump. The Tour Guide told everyone who could be bothered to listen "Over there is a yacht (it was a dirty great big ostentatious thing) . . . that's Donald Trump's yacht!" I remember thinking, strange though this now seems, "Who the bloody hell is Donald Trump?!" You know what, I still think that now! (A little bit of political satire there for you folks! Tell your friends, I'm here all week.)

People always think it is never sunny in England. I would have made myself quite a few dollars every time I had been asked “Does the rain remind you of England?” throughout my time in Western Massachusetts. Well it was dull and overcast that Sunday. We were to visit the” Twin Towers” that evening.

The World Trade Center was situated near Wall Street. I’ll remember the moment we approached the building. You leaned your head back as far as you could and you still couldn’t take in the enormity of the building you were seeing.

It’s a memory I'll take with me to my grave, to say I have visited that famous monument so tragically and unnecessarily taken away from us. We got to go to the top floor. As it was wet we weren't allowed to go to the top of the building, but the top floor was good enough for me. I remember looking down on The Empire State Building . . . that’s how freaking high up we were. Just writing this now, 25 years on, gives me the goosebumps

Simply Wed - A Teaser

Linda Rose – Thy Country Tis for Me

The United States of America has always held a fascination for me. Like a lot of Brits, the country that gave us John Wayne, Jimmy Cagney, Jimi Hendrix and more glamour than you can shake a stick at has always been the pot of Gold at the end of the rainbow.

The United States was what we strived for, despite what a lot people may say. Great Britain was in the doldrums after World War Two, ruined and broke after our heroic efforts in that war. We went looking to our transatlantic cousins for help.

I needed help in finding true love. I'd had my moments but was at the time in my life when I  needed someone who satisfied me completely – Ms. right, not just Ms. right now if you catch my drift!

I believe it was Eric Burdon of “The Animals” who famously sang “I'm just a soul whose intentions are good, oh Lord please don't let me be misunderstood”.  It took me a long time for me to finally appreciate myself and to find that special someone who understood me completely.

Linda Rose, the woman who I am happily married to and has encouraged me to write and write and write, was and is that special someone. We have had a wonderful life together, and  this year celebrate ten years since we first met and in November will have been married for eight years (our Bronze anniversary apparently!)

This story is the tale of how I first came to the United States of America and eventually came to live in Western Massachusetts. If someone had said to me at the beginning of the millennium that by the end of the decade I'd be happily married to a woman I met via a mutual interest in Simply Red I’d have said you were bonkers!

People have said to us that our story should have been told to Oprah - it’s supposedly that entertaining. It has not been your conventional relationship but hey, if it works, it works.

This is the story of my love affair with all things American, from the TV shows, the radio stations to the woman who has made me complete – my Linda. I’m happy to say that we proved a lot of people wrong and are, and will continue to be, “Simply Wed”.

Hello Florence My Old Friend

An Englishman in Florence

It hardly seems possible that it is exactly nine years to the day since I first saw Florence Massachusetts for the first time. I'm glad I kept a diary of the event . . . 

Tuesday 19^th July – “I was only, 24 hours from Linda  . . . "

Let the journey commence! The great day had arrived. The journey had had such a build-up during the numerous phone calls that took place between Linda, my guardian angel, and yours truly, her sweetie. The calls that took place during the late evening my time usually, as the clock turned midnight, would have one of us saying “Happy Day 25” or whatever day it happened to be as we maintained the countdown to the big event.  We had been counting down the days for what seemed like a lifetime. It has felt like a lifetime since were last together; well, although February 2005 isn’t exactly years ago, it might well have been, considering the emotional, physical and quite frankly every other level you care to mention we are now at during this most wonderful adventure we embarked on, an adventure that started out in January 2003, courtesy of Simply Red . . .  more of that later!!!

I left home at about half past eight in the morning. I had booked a taxi. It arrived very promptly. My first destination was Holmes Chapel railway station, a place now oh so familiar to me since my escapades in Manchester with Direct Line. I gave my mum a hug. She told me she would be OK. Yesterday was an eventful day to say the least. My mum had been involved in a car crash. She’d lost control of the car en route to Biddulph, where she was on her rounds teaching her pupils. We’d spent a few hours in North StaffsHospital until I managed to get her home. I would later be comforted with the news that Bridget would be able to take time off to get back up to Congleton to spend a few days with her. Chatting with Linda about it, she reassured me by saying “Look at it this way . . . you were there for your mother when she needed you the most – now it’s Bridget’s turn “ I felt so much better – see, that’s why I love my Linda so much : she always knows how to make me feel just right at exactly the right time !

The 8.53 to Piccadilly was on time. My stop would be the airport. I got there, and had the long, Napoleon’s retreat from Moscow like trek from the airport’s train platform to Terminal 2, where I was to check in for my 12.35pm flight to Philadelphia. I thought I would be early, being there when I was There was a big queue of people, all with the same intention of going to the good old US of A- shows how much I know!

Well, checking in was successfully negotiated, and to my pleasant surprise, the time between checking in and being called to get on the plane went relatively quickly. At about 12.55pm the plane took off – Linda darling, I’m on my way babes!!

Almost instantly, I nodded off for about half an hour. I would do this on a couple of other occasions during the trip across the pond. I was pleased to find that one of the films available to watch on the in-flight entertainment was “Hitch” with Will Smith. This helped pass the time away enormously. It was your archetypal romantic comedy, but was good fun to watch, was funny and in my opinion as a one time actor with the Congleton Players, The Wilmslow Green Room and as an extra at Gawsworth Hall was well acted. There were episodes of “Joey” and “Two and a Half Men” to keep me good also.

Anyway, things were going smoothly until there was an announcement when we were approximately 260 miles from Philly that the “First Officer “was “illegal “!! What the hell had he done I asked myself. It turned out that he was risking flying more hours than he was supposed to do. US Airways, God bless ‘em, felt like getting away with it, but the F.A.A. were having none of it. We were 30 minutes from Philadelphia and were forced to touch down in Boston. Nobody could get off the plane. What an f@#k up!!  Apparently, after being found out, they tried to reason with them, saying it was only an extra half hour, but they wouldn’t let them continue. It does beg the question what the hell was he doing flying the bloody plane in the first place? The mind boggles to say the least. Having said that, who allowed him to fly the plane in the first place? I doubt I’ll ever find out.

Oh well, after a half hour delay in Boston, we were on our way. At 4pm local time, we touched down, thanks to the newly legal pilot! My connecting flight was scheduled for 5.20pm, so it was game on to get through everything in time. No chance!!

There must have been some kind of backlog, because I was stood in the queue for 40 minutes. I eventually got to the front of the queue. Once again, after having filled out the form on the flight, full of pertinent questions such as had I been a Nazi collaborator between 1933 and 1945(it’s true; they really do ask 37 year old Brits that!) I was asked the purpose of my visit, who I was going to see and did I know the address- usual nonsense, but hey, welcome to America mate!

That hurdle successfully overcome, the mad dash to get my bags checked in for the last leg. Another queue!! Tired, sweating like a pig and just desperate to see Linda now, I found that I was to board the flight to Bradley from gate B16. Fair enough, let’s get there I said to myself. It was only at the end of the bloody airport! Blimey! Still, I got there and found out that my flight had been delayed and that I wasn’t going to miss the last leg to heaven. I had enough time to call Linda and inform her I was OK, sweating and couldn’t wait to see her. She told me, in typical, wonderful fashion, she would be there waiting patiently for me. Nothing else could happen could it?

Of course it could. After having boarded the plane at 6.50pm, we were told by the captain, a fine southern gentleman, that there were 30 planes in front of us waiting to take off!! Good grief! A moan of disbelief emanated from the passengers. The stewards graciously gave us a glass of iced water to stop us from completely dehydrating. In for a penny in for a pound was never more appropriate. I got chatting to a lady who was sat next to me with her little lad. They had had just as excruciatingly a frustrating trip as me as they had come from Barcelona. We chatted and that was nice- helped make it go that little bit quicker.

Eventually, the flight landed! Yippee!! Purposefully I strode down the corridor, Eric like, to my wonderful woman. I went through the door and there she was. I was so glad to see her. The smile was just as gorgeous as I remembered it in February, last October, last May and last March (not forgetting the web cam chats!) 

We hugged, kissed (naturally) and got a trolley so I could get my bags. I was buggered if I was humping those bloody heavy things again!

Whenever you are standing at the carousel waiting for your bags, there’s always that little sense of “please come through now!” You are never completely satisfied until you see your bags. You hear so many stories of people losing their luggage through no fault of their own. God forbid it should happen to me anytime – I’ve some decent gear!

So, after having got in the car, we chatted and set off to the place that is home until Friday 29^th July- 112 Pine Street Florence. The journey went quick because of the lack of traffic. It was great seeing the sights that I remembered from my time here last year. I was here at last.

At just before 10pm we arrived. 112 Pine Street is a wonderful place. It is a wonderfully decorated place situated in a leafy suburb of Florence. It was truly amazing to be finally alone with Linda. I was buzzing from the excitement of seeing her again and also conscious of the fact that, taking into consideration the time zone factor, I had been awake for the thick end of 24 hours. We exchanged gifts we had got for each other and spent the rest of the time chatting. I had a shower as I still had the clothes I had had on since this morning. I felt relaxed and was glad to put my Next Sleepy Ed pajamas on. At about 1.00am in the morning my darling and I finally got in to bed and I was out for the count. Tired, but very happy, I was here at last. The 5 month wait was over. Let the dummy run for the future begin! 

Wednesday 20^th July – Chill Out Day

Linda and I, whenever we are together, always, and I mean always, get up early! We have talked about this and we came to the conclusion that we are so keen to enjoy and savour every moment that no time can be wasted. If we need a nap, we’ll take a nap is the motto.

We awoke at about 7.00am. The local radio station, WRNX, has a DJ who does the breakfast show called John Allen. He’s good, and even better, he’s English and hails from Derbyshire! I have chatted to him last year, when I was here last. We listened to him whilst having breakfast, which, fantastically, was my usual – Weetabix! They have it in America! How good’s that??!

After experiencing all the sh’s (shower, shave, shampoo, you get the drift!) we set off for a walk. We went to the park that is situated opposite Northampton High School.  It was good to experience the neighbourhood and feel part of it. Papers bought we went home. I always enjoy buying US papers; I find it fascinating. The part of my personality that enjoys learning loves reading the US angle on things and also lamenting on the lack of coverage of United!!

The afternoon saw us napping. We had a light lunch consisting of sandwiches and crisps and after got some valuable shut eye. I needed it. The excitement of being in a foreign country, experiencing real America, and being with Linda finally got the better of me. One thing that was done was Linda downloaded the CD photo album of Bridget and Gareth’s wedding from February of this year. Happy memories indeed! For me and Linda, it was our first “public engagement” of a sort, so it brought back some happy times.

We decided that for our evening meal we would have Chinese. We both love Chinese food. Hunan Gourmet didn't disappoint. It was a very filling meal they served up. I wasn’t surprised to find out that portions do tend to last a few days for folks over here because there’s so bloody much of it! More interestingly, there’s no MSG in the food here, unlike dear old Blighty.

The evening was spent watching DVD’s. Linda had asked me to bring some over. Clever lady has a multi-regional DVD player so she can watch some of the finest things the UK has to offer (United, Phoenix Nights, that kind of thing!)

Thursday 21^st July –When Eddie met Gert and Jen     

Today was a day for the diary; it was a day when people who are close in Linda’s life got to meet me. It was special for both of us. Linda has, reading between the lines, waxed lyrical about me on a fair few occasions, and so it was important for her to show me off as it were: this person from England who means so much to her really does exist! It was special for me because it was great to meet a friend of hers and it was an important moment to meet her daughter Jennifer, the eldest.

It had been arranged to meet Gert at the Hunan Gourmet restaurant at 12.30. He was there a little before us and was there to greet us both on our arrival. I was impressed by the man. A kind friendly person with a very positive and vigorous handshake, his distinctive New York accent and love of the Yankees becoming apparent very early on to me. When I mentioned I had, on my first trip to the US of A, back in September 1989, had stayed in Bayside, Queens, he knew exactly where I was talking about.

One thing that was also evident was Gert’s love of music. Looking very good for someone who is nearly 60 years of age, his tales of seeing bands from the ‘60’s and at venues like Madison Square Gardens kept me good! He was interested to know about certain aspects of English life, which was good also.

In the evening, I met Jen. Initially, we met on “neutral ground” as it were, at her place of work, a hairdressing salon called Aurelio’s. The eyes of the salon were upon me! I was going to get the three month mop of hair (what’s left of it anyway!) cut into something bordering on a fashionable haircut. Her colleagues greeted me in a friendly manner; I guess it’s not everyday someone from England comes in! I was politely offered a drink of tea, which I turned down equally as politely, only to be met with the comment” you’re from England and you don’t drink tea??!!” (God bless stereotyping eh?) Anyhow, a glass of water sufficed.

Jennifer, to her credit, did a great job in cutting my hair. I was very pleased. Having had the same hairstyle for the thick end of 10 years and being challenged in the hair department, it was good to get something of a change. A new me you could say!!

Jennifer had suggested to her mum that we go to her place afterwards for a meal. It was nice of her to offer and even more gracious when she picked up the tab for the Chinese take away we had. The Americans sure know how to have good Chinese meals! It was delicious.

Afterwards, we chatted over a glass of wine. Jennifer, her mother and I got on very well and I found her friendly and interesting to talk to. What was evident was her love of music and film. She had a great DVD collection demonstrating her eclectic tastes, which is no bad thing (says he with God knows how many DVD’s) and her CD collection was equally as interesting. We listened to one CD in particular, from Robbie Robertson, he of The Band fame, collaboration with Native Americans, which was wonderfully mellow. One to add to the collection we thought!

Meeting Jen was good. She was friendly and open and made me feel welcome, which I liked. It was important for her mum for her and I to get along and we did. Everyone was on top form and it made for a very good, peaceful, fun and productive evening.

Friday 22^nd July- Retail Therapy Day and the Grand Unveiling of Linda’s Love nest!   

Courtesy of the exchange rate, the USA is a great place to go to shop. It’s been that way for a year or more now. My love of music is well documented, so stores such as Best Buy are a Godsend! Clothes, much to my pleasure and sometimes financial distress, are also a bit of a weakness also.

I had visited Best Buy last year. In the intervening months it had been nothing but a website to compare and contrast prices with those charged by my usual musical hang outs (HMV, Amazon etc). Now it was for real – game on!!

Best Buy didn’t disappoint- so much so, a second trip is almost definitely on the cards! I bought New Order’s new CD, the much heralded Coldplay CD and a Simply Red double CD containing all the hits, plus one or two rarities (a fantastic cover version of James Brown’s “I Know You Got Soul” warrants particular mention) Oh, and I nearly forgot- a Richard Pryor live comedy CD. A comedy CD is important, because last year, the purchase of the Robin Williams live CD was a life changing moment- that was so funny!

Clothes faired well also- a wonderful pink Tommy Hilfiger polo shirt and a pair of shorts were bought. You need shorts in this heat. My angel very graciously bought me a shirt – it’s a lovely fit. Linda treated herself to a new green corduroy jacket- it suited her well.

We topped up on the booze because in the evening we’d be having a kind of apartment warming/ English (!) evening chez Linda and Eddie. Linda had invited a few close friends round for drinks. Food was on offer also- Chinese takeaway! Quelle surprise!! We’d finished off the first round of left overs that we accrued on Wednesday for dinner and now it was a case of bring on the next main course! Golly, such grub! The left overs from our meal with Jen would be demolished later, trust me!

This little soiree had been talked about for quite some time. I had talked to a few of them on the telephone before when Linda had taken her mobile ‘phone with her when she’d been out with them on previous occasions. They were all friends of hers from when they were all colleagues at UMASS.

4.50pm we got a call from Joanne- she wondered if she’d be OK to come round as she wasn't sure if there was a set time. “I don't want to interrupt anything” she said. . .

“Of course not, “I said. “We did that this morning!”

Slowly but surely, the rest of the guests arrived, welcomed by yours truly and my angel. They were given a warm welcome and copious amounts of drinks and nibbles. Joanne, who I later discovered to be wonderfully eccentric, arrived first followed by Donna and her beau, Brian. A self confessed music buff, he really was a definitive young American, aged 32, quite handsome and funny.  I got on very well with Donna. The other couple there was Randy and Susan. Susan, quiet and demure, displayed a quite dry sense of humour.  Randy, was quiet but came into life when he held court telling jokes and doing Indian impressions (not as good as mine!)

All in all, everyone had a good time. Yes, we had Chinese again, and yes, it was bloody good! I enjoyed meeting everyone. It was good to meet people and share an evening with them and be part of Linda Rose’s social life, supporting her. I hope I gave a good impression of myself. It was a good way to round Friday night off. Linda and I were knackered at the end of the night but we thought “a job well done!”

Saturday 23^rd July- A Groovy Time was had By All!

Today, well, today was first and foremost, concert day. We had tickets for the Crosby Stills and Nash concert at Look Park. I had been looking forward to that immensely. I don’t go to concerts very often, the last one being at the M.E.N. in October of 2003 to see Simply Red, so to see a concert, an open air one, in the United States, is too good an opportunity to miss.

I wasn't overly familiar with CS&N’s work as, to me, being someone born in 1967, they’re a band who have a repertoire that includes songs that make you go “oh, that’s them is it?” I love listening to music from across the decades. I have done for ages now.  For instance, during the concert, the band played “Love The One You’re With”, a song that the late Luther Vandross had a hit with. Apparently, Stephen Stills wrote it. See what I mean?

Before we went to the concert, in the afternoon I met Linda’s sister Pat. She lived just round the corner from her. How would I describe Pat? Well, dear reader, she’s a feisty little character to say the least. She reminded me a little bit of Carla of “Cheers” when in a good mood.  Standing only 4ft11” tall, she was friendly but could talk!! She had a particular interest in the media, namely TV stations and radio stations. She was kind to me and it was good to meet Linda’s sister.

The more people I ingratiate myself with the better. That’s one of the purposes of this trip- last year was done under the cover of darkness, in a manner of speaking. This trip was about advertising to those nearest and dearest to LRAK that she does have a new man in her life and that the person she’s gone on about for all this time does exist in the form of yours truly.

Anyhow, on to the concert. Look Park was truly wonderful. It was a great place to have an open air concert. The atmosphere was very reminiscent of Gawsworth Hall pre show time. Picnics as far as the eye could see. Linda and my good self sampled Subways finest fare. I am proud to say it tasted just as good as the Subways in Manchester!!

 Size wise, the venue was quite small. It added to the uniqueness of the whole occasion.

There was only CS&N on the bill. True to form, they came on at 7.00pm, as advertised. I enjoyed the concert immensely. Linda loved it. She was in her element, having, occasionally, the odd trip down memory lane. It was wonderful to see that glorious wonderful smile of hers that night. It was like watching a group of musicians jamming and having a damn good time. The band was fantastic. Their enjoyment shone out. Their music was a fusion of jazz/blues, country and folk. They could play alright as well. Value for money was obtained (so it should for $65 a go!)  They were on from 7.00pm until 8.20pm then re emerged on stage at a quarter to nine and finished at ten to ten. We got ourselves a couple of t shirts, as you do at these kinds of events and a CD of work put out last year of Graham Nash and David Crosby. It was wonderful music I can tell you.

One thing I must mention about the whole event. The area where I am is, to a degree, a pretty liberal area. A very pro Democrat area. A concert put on by a band from the 60’s who showed, at times, that they still had fire in their bellies (a cry of “Fuck George Bush” springs to mind!) didn’t half bring out the hippies! It was fantastic! I lost count of all the beards, graying now it has to be said, that were proudly on display. A few greys and even the odd snow white pony tail were there as well. If they weren't seen there were the odd bald men with what’s left of his hair grey and in need of a hair cut. Truly a wonderful event! Tonight was an occasion for all the company directors and accountants and middle managers to let their hair down. It was a chance for them to relive their youth. My Linda Rose flashed that schoolgirl smile of hers a few times that night. All told it was a truly magical evening set in the warmth of Florence at a great venue listening to good music. Fantastic! We got home at around 10.30pm and rounded the evening off by watching Frasier on DVD. Perfect!

Sunday 24^th July- Match of the Day

Today was game day. We were to travel to Foxboro, a journey I eventually would discover of approximately 200 miles (round trip) to watch an exhibition game between Chelsea and A.C.Milan being played at the Gillette Stadium, home to the New England Patriots, the reigning Superbowl Champions and New England Revolution, the Major League Soccer team for these parts. Now, as anyone who knows me well enough will tell you, there’s no way on this earth I’d support Chelsea, being the Red that I am. I became a Milan fan for the day.

A leisurely Sunday morning was perfect for the long drive down. Experiencing toll roads was new for me, so that was good. Linda managed the route superbly, guessing to perfection what time to set off so as we could arrive in good time in order to be settled for the 7.00pm kick off.

We arrived at around 5.00pm. What greeted me was something very American. People were parked up in the car park ($25 to park – rip off – shades of Mr. Glazer’s plans for the future methinks) on their beach chairs having food and slurping drinks; kids, to my pleasure, were playing football.  Nothing like Old Trafford this! I didn’t see an American version of Red Issue being sold at all.  Linda and I had a nose in the Pro Shop, their version of the Megastore. Except it was nothing like venue I’ve spent a few bob in down the years at United. They had a half decent selection of merchandise to sell, but, quite frankly, it was so small compared to United. Anyhow, we queued up to get in. By now, it was around 6.00pm. Again, we were faced with something that was a bit ridiculous. Separate entrances to queue up in for men and women. Very strange indeed! I couldn't understand the need for it. Linda and I were temporarily split up for what did seem like quite a while. I was sure glad to see her! She felt the same way also! With us reunited, and with programmes bought, I began taking pictures.

I have to say the Gillette Stadium is quite an impressive affair. My heart will always belong to Old Trafford- that is cast in stone. The facilities at the Gillette Stadium are tremendous; everything is taken into consideration. It’s a bit pricey I have to confess. As someone who is now supporting an American owned team, it does give me a little cause for concern.

Anyhow, enough of the political ramblings. The game finished 1-0 to Chelsea. Milan started off brightly enough, utilizing the gaps exposed in between the channels but weren't good enough to maintain some promise showed. An early goal in the 13^th minute was all that was needed.  Milan clearly demonstrated why they were 2 weeks behind Chelsea in terms of fitness. Milan managed one shot on goal in the whole 90 minutes. From an English point of view, Shaun Wright Philips didn't look out of place on the right side of midfield . . . surely a good sign with the World Cup being next year. One thing that did make me smile; how the people running the game managed to announce goal of the game 10 minutes from time I’ll never know!

We successfully negotiated our way out of the ground and made good time on the long return drive home. We were back at the Love nest for about 10.50pm. Having slipped into something comfortable (like the bed!) we decided we needed something entertaining-something to make us giggle. It was a unanimous decision- Robin Williams was needed! His concert on Broadway is a Linda and Eddie all time favourite. It did the trick; we ended the night smiling and slept soundly.

Monday 25^th July- Goofing Around!    

Well, today was our rest day. With all what’s gone on these last few days, we decided we'd have a lazy day today. The only thing we ventured out to do was go to the supermarket. We went to the Whole Foods Market. They stocked lots of good produce and we came back laden with goodies to keep us fed and watered for the rest of my time here and beyond probably!

It was good to have a rest and just spend quality time with my gorgeous one. 

Tuesday 26^th July- WRNX 100.9FM meets me!!

What a morning! My darling Linda and I got on the radio! We were guests of John Allen, the breakfast show host. The deal with Mr. Allen started last year.

Linda had told me that she listened to a D.J. whose voice sounded not too dissimilar to mine. When I was in the States last year, I heard him. She was right! It was a similar voice. Anyhow, on my first full day last year, I was listening to the show in bed with my angel (this would become a regular occurrence, listening to John Allen- sometimes, he’s really great to make love to also!) and heard that he had a little slot in his show called “Word In Your Ear”. The idea for this was he would give a phrase or word that is peculiar to us Brits and the natives would have to guess what it meant or its origin.

Well, I heard him that morning and I knew what the word was. Linda said it was ok for me to call. We had a good natter did Mr. Allen and I. To my surprise, he played our chat on the radio! How cool was that?! I now need to whiz forward to the present.

Some weeks ago, Linda called John vis a vis how Americans didn't truly understand how much importance is placed on sport, in particular football, in this country. My angel recounted the time she witnessed an Anti-Glazer protest march before the United A.C.Milan tie in February. She then happened to remind him about me speaking to him last year. Surprisingly, he remembered! Linda mentioned that I was over later that month. John was interested in getting together- all Brits together kind of thing.

Just before I came out here, Linda called me and put the ‘phone to the radio, so I could hear the word of the day. The premise was I call in the show and have a go for the word in your ear and arrange when we'd meet up. I, fortuitously, knew the word: it was “diddle”. The ensuing chat was great. John was a bit flummoxed as to how I heard the word considering my geographical location at the time- but hey, it made great radio!

Linda later told me how there was some chat over this call from England. I even warranted a mention in his Sports Chat with Scott Coen! What a laugh! Anyhow, it was agreed; I would be on the air on Tuesday 26^th July, after 9.00am.

Well, the great day arrived. The chat on air between John, Linda and myself went really well. We talked about my name and how I got it, the One foundation and generally put the world to rights. Linda came over really well. She spoke really well. She really is an articulate person.

 We chatted about how the English would say “goodbye” as a way of signing off. Ken Dodd also came in to the conversation; his picture was in an advert that was in a local paper. John got good mileage out of this both before and while we were on air.

After the show, the three of us went for a beer in downtown Northampton. We got on fabulously well, did Mr. Allen and myself. We reminisced about 70’s English comedians and all sorts of other good stuff. Music naturally came into the conversation. He used to book artistes for a club apparently before he became a D.J. He had met some stars and had one or two good tales to tell.

Linda and I reckoned we’d made a good friend in John Allen. We both plan to keep in touch with him. If a way can be found to contribute to the breakfast show on WRNX, 100.9FM , it will be found, believe you me! It’s a good station that plays good music.

To our surprise, a word we mentioned during the conversation in the bar became the following days’ “ Word In Your Ear” . That word was “Dinky”. It should have been mentioned that that day’s word in your ear came courtesy of Stella Artois and Guinness!

Later that day, Linda and I met her youngest daughter Jessica and her boyfriend Neil. Here’s a surprise- we went out for Chinese!   Would you believe it??!!

The chat was very friendly and relaxed. It was good to meet them both. They were kind and courteous to me. To me, Jessica is a kind and gentle soul who wouldn't hurt a fly.  Linda mentioned that Jess is very different to Jennifer. They are different, but in very positive ways.  She and Neil look like a lovely couple who are in love and generally deserve each other.

The restaurant was lovely, and the food was great. Yet again, there was too much!

After we got back home to the Love Nest, we decided we'd go for a walk. We needed to burn off the calories from that sumptuous feast. We had a lovely walk. We went round the block . Linda showed me where she and her family had lived before they moved up to Goshen. It was a lovely time, walking with my angel, holding hands. Very romantic you could say-and it was. It was peaceful just being with Linda, chatting quietly and listening to her reminisce about bygone days. It was lovely.

Wednesday 27^th July- Go Revs!

As we were going to watch the New England Revolution play in Foxboro today, we decided a lazy day was required.  

The game ended 1-1 with the Los Angeles Galaxy. Galaxy scored first, but the Revs equalized with a penalty. What struck me was that I enjoyed the game but could tell the differences between this level of football and the Premiership. Technically, there was still room for improvement.

However, what really struck me was the difference in presentation of the match compared to England. It was very different. Announcers reading out adverts during quiet moments during the game, the way the teams entered the pitch, having the national anthem sung before the game-we only hear “God Save The  Queen “ sung at a football match on F.A.Cup final day. I mentioned earlier I support a club owned by an American. I hope I haven't had a clear vision of the future. Some aspects of what I saw were cheesy, no doubt about it. Nonetheless, as a football fan, it was a great experience going to see two games in the US. I enjoyed the whole experience immensely.

Thursday 28^th July- One More Shopping List for The Road

Well, another lazy morning did us the world of good. Late morning saw us go to two stores Linda frequents on a regular basis. The supermarket visited was “Stop and Shop”. Again, this was another great store that allowed Linda and I to have a gentle stroll round, chatting about what was needed and doing what we set out to do-be a couple .

I watched a DVD of Linda’s; “The Best of The Honeymooners”. It was an old T.V. show she used to watch as a girl. It was funny and I enjoyed it.

Later in the afternoon, we went out again. This time we went to Barnes and Noble and Best Buy. A few goodies were bought for folks back home in England then we headed off back to the Love Nest. I love it the way Linda has embraced my family. I love her very much. She’s my girl and will be in this eclectic lot I call my family for the rest of her days, there’s no doubt about that!

Tonight would be just us two. Linda made a lovely evening meal of pork chops, boiled rice, mushrooms and spinach, while I slaved over a hot computer downloading music for her.

The meal was lovely and afterwards, we sat out on the porch( or, to be realistic, snuggled up next to each other) We chatted for a while . Merlin later joined us. It made me smile. It felt like I had my family with me. It was so lovely.

To round off this wonderful evening, we retired to bed and watched “The Ladykillers” on DVD. Now, as any student of Linda and Eddie will tell you, that film, the remake starring Tom Hanks not the original Ealing classic, was the film we saw on our first date. It has become “our” film. It brings back lovely memories of a wonderful Saturday spent at The Berkshire Mall. It was the first time we had seen the film together since that day. We both had seen it since. I went by myself to see it when it was released in England and subsequently on DVD. Linda had watched it on DVD also. We also felt like it was a night to have a drink. So, we did. 

 Although we were having a lovely romantic evening, there was one dirty big ugly dark cloud looming ominously overhead- the day I had to go home was nearly upon us. Tears had been shed as early as Wednesday. It’s understandable when you have a love like we have. Nevertheless, a common feature, when and wherever possible, is that we always will be positive. Our glass is always half full, not half empty. It wouldn't have gone unnoticed that plans for the next time were underway.  

Friday 29^th July- The Darkest Hour Had Arrived

Astonishingly, my last day had arrived. I couldn't comprehend it. Yet at the same time, a time spent doing so many wonderful things could, with hindsight, only go quick, so it was inevitable. It still sucked though. 

More tears were shed by both of us. I hugged her. Truly, it is a horrible feeling, this feeling of imminent separation from each other and only my worst enemy would I wish this on.  We had lovely Turkey breast sandwiches and salsa flavored crisps for lunch. 

I got all my stuff together. I managed to pack it all in somehow. I left behind a pair of boxer shorts that Linda loves to see me in. I know she’ll think of me when she wears them.

It was 2.00pm. Time to go. I hadn’t noticed where Merlin was. He was lying on the floor, asleep in the living room. I lay down and kissed him and told him I’d see him again. He truly is a wonderful cat and I love him dearly. I told Merly I’d see him again. No doubt about that.

Before we set off, I just had to take two more pictures. I took a picture of Linda stood outside 112 Pine Street. It has become home to me in the States, no question about it. It will always be home. Linda took one of me. We'd taken some good pictures during my time there; Linda and I individually with Merlin stick out in the memory in particular.

We got to the airport. After having checked in, we continued our chat about “the next time” that was started on the way to the airport. It was as positive as we could manage, all things considered.

More tears. More sadness. We hugged each other. Tightly. It’s hard to write this; all the emotions and feelings of emptiness and numbness come flooding back. I can feel it now. A numbness, a tingle of some sort. It’s like when a close relative dies tragically too soon. You feel lost and confused. That’s how it feels- like someone has died. The feelings I felt when Linda had to leave me last March for a night. I've always felt a bit of a loner. Outside looking in kind of thing. With Linda, I’m complete. She’s my soul mate, my pal, my lover all rolled into one. I said earlier this nonsense can’t go no much longer. It won’t .

We made plans for the end of the year. A lot of stuff has to happen before we can be together but that'll happen and we will be together again.

I love Linda so very much. Florence, Massachusetts is a great place. We will look into every opportunity of either me being with Linda in Florence or Linda being with me here in England. Whatever happens, Linda Rose’s next husband is writing this diary, a recounting of a wonderful 10 nights for an Englishman in Florence. 

The Loneliness of the Long Distance Call Handler

Only the things we do has changed . . .

The landscape of the country has chnaged. There's no disputing that. We now live in a 24/7 society. Everything has to be delivered in an instant. The arrival of social networking and the internet mean that information can be obtained in a second. Computers dominate our lives. If you don't have even a basic working knowledge of how to get by you are in trouble. The information you need is available in an instant. Companies who used to send stuff out now say "it's on our website" . . . and that's all there is to it. So you need something - well there's always an app for it!

The towns that once thrived are now ghosts, mere shadows of their former selves. Thrift shops fill town centres. My home town now feels like a commuter town. It has felt like that for many years. The need to work out town has been there for many years.

Peace and tranquility - no sales sheets here!

I work in a call centre that is based twenty three miles away. It is not the first time I've done this work. I have worked in two call centres prior to this one, attempting to sell car insurance and working for a utility company selling policies designed to look after your boiler and central heating. Now I'm attempting to sell breakdown cover working for a famous breakdown organization here in the UK.

The journey takes between 45 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic. You see the same glazed look on drivers every morning as they crawl along in traffic. The feeling of tension can be felt as the cars stop and start. The knowledge that the time you have made up whizzing along the country roads have been lost as you hit the main roads. The main roads aren't the only things that got hit. It saddens me to see animals lying on the road, dead from having been hit by some person who couldn't have cared less about the poor defenceless creature, let alone the speed limit. The other day I counted five dead animals. So sad.

The radio is good company. A witty DJ goes an awful long way to alleviating the monotony of the journey. Good music or a good story is a great way to help you commute!

Once upon a time, two film enthusiasts called Mitchell and Kenyon filmed working class Britain at the beginning of the twentieth century. It truly is worth watching. The way they chronicled working class Britian is fascinating. At first glance it would appear like a million miles from life today. It isn't really. The modern day factory is now the call centre. We need a modern day Mitchell and Kenyon!

Now, instead of wearing flat claps and making things, the modern day factory worker wears "office wear" or something with the company logo and starts their "shift". There's no "clocking on" in the traditional sense, it's done on your 'phone . . . no surprise there then you might say.

Here's a question - how would you define customer service? Is it helping people with their enquiries or twisting the conversation to suit the company's needs and persuading people to have something? There's a very fine line in my opinion from actually helping people  (the reason I decided to get into the "profession" in the first place) to being a glorified "salesman". Yes, people need to know what products are on offer but there are times when you hear yourself speaking and wonder "who the hell is this person?" You wonder how much of the corporate way of thinking you have subconsciously bought into. It does make you say "no, this is not the way of the world and companies should not exploit its customers." Thirty years of "Reaganomics" and the ghosts of Mrs.Thatcher's exploits linger on sadly. We need to take a more ethical approach to our working practices. We need to show more compassion towards our fellow human beings. We should answer to human beings' needs, not their shareholding.

There is some satisfaction to working in a call centre. The opportunity to talk to different people from all walks of life has always appealed to me. Every now and then there's something to laugh about during a call, someone who has a fascinating annecdote to tell and someone who's getting on in life who brings a smile to yourself when they thank you for being kind to them and showing some empathy to their situation. That is job satisfaction.

I'll always strive to make people happy.  It is in my DNA. How I'll end up doing that - well, only time will tell. Strive to help someone, do something positive that has some impact on their life. I'll keep on trying.

Until the next time,