blue-collar father, white-collar son

After an endless day of working in the miserable heat, Russell drives his son, John, to a quiet area just off the road where he would be picked up to go to a prestigious state university. The silence filled the muggy air surrounding them as the rundown, hefty truck slowly inched to a stop, and they both, without speaking, headed out to unload the luggage as their beloved dog, Buddy, pranced happily behind. When the last suitcase was carried out, Russell plopped down lazily on the running board, John sitting up straight beside him as they gazed at the blank space around them, determined to avoid eye contact.

Although the environment was undoubtedly uncomfortable, Russell caught a glimpse of his dashing son, dressed properly in a pristine white suit on the brink of his college career, and couldn’t help but be proud. He glanced down at his blue-collar work uniform, stained with the frustrations that came with his years of labor, and knew in his heart he did it all for this moment, all for John. His son now has the opportunity to be a white-collar man in a white-collar world.

“So, uhh.. how you feelin’ about all of this John,” Russell grumbled in a deep tone that was difficult to understand.

“Good, good,” John muttered back softly.

“Good,” Russell mumbled, continuing to stare into space. He wasn’t one for talking.

Buddy skipped to where the two were sitting and put his head solemnly on John’s leg, as if to say ‘goodbye’.

To ease the tension, Russell popped in a cigarette from his pocket, thinking about his own future, thinking about the great things his son would accomplish. John heard it first - the rumble of his ride coming into view - he popped up his head to look at it, quickly realizing the newfound respect, class, and honor that was coming his way.