She Strengthens

Breaking Free from the Burden of Car Ownership

As someone who’s had their fair share of mishaps behind the wheel, I’ve come to realize that driving isn’t exactly my forte. Despite this, I’ve always had a certain fondness for being a passenger in a car. However, my history with driving is checkered, to say the least. I’ve driven my trusty 2003 Volkswagen Jetta into several objects and other moving vehicles – a testament to my questionable driving skills.

A Privileged Past

Growing up, I was fortunate enough to receive a car as a gift from my parents, fully paid off, on the condition that I graduate high school and college. It was an incredible gesture, and I’m ashamed to admit that I didn’t appreciate it as much as I should have. I treated that car poorly, and it’s a miracle I’m still alive today. As I look back, I realize how blessed I was, and how much money was invested in my happiness and future, only to be squandered through the years.

The Decision to Let Go

Fast-forward to two years ago, when I moved to Los Angeles and paid a hefty sum to ship my car across the country. It was a decision I soon came to regret. The car’s internal operations began to fail, and I was faced with a $2,000 repair bill to make it driveable again. I chose not to fix it, and instead, let it sit idle for months, racking up parking tickets and repair costs.

A Hasty Decision

In April, my car broke down, and I was forced to sell it for a paltry $400 to a shady character who promised me cash on the spot. I’m still unsure if the transaction was legal, but I’m hoping for the best. Looking back, I realize that I made a grave mistake, losing thousands of dollars and valuable time in the process.

Learning from My Mistakes

As I reflect on my experience, I’m reminded of the importance of being responsible with my finances and appreciating the value of hard-earned money. I’m determined to learn from my mistakes and budget my life around not having a car. It’s a liberating feeling, and I’m excited to explore alternative modes of transportation and discover the joys of being car-free.

A New Chapter

As I embark on this new journey, I’m reminded of the wise words of Carrie Bradshaw: “Maybe one day I will love a car again, but for now, I need to be single: no strings attached, no accidents, just me and the open road. And like, maybe some money?” Indeed, I’d love to hit the road with some financial security and a clearer conscience.