They Will Be Happy: Part 1 - 3

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They Will Be Happy:

(Part 1 of 3)

I woke up this morning feeling well-rested and refreshed, but also slightly disoriented. As I opened my eyes, I remembered where I was; in my sleeper pod, a device that has become as commonplace as a backpack, or a binder for students. It's hard to imagine a time when people didn't use them, when we didn't understand the impact that our actions had on the environment. Everything is pure white, with a few gray accents here and there. There are no buttons, no screens, no flashy decorations. Just a smooth, curved surface that feels cool and soft to the touch. The only thing that breaks the monotony is a small green light, indicating that the pod is ready for use. It's hard to believe that something so modern-looking can be produced so cheaply and efficiently, but that's the power of mass production. When we first started using them, there was some resistance. People thought it was too impersonal, too “clinical.” As the benefits became clear, and the process became more refined, the objections faded away.

The farming and cultivation of meat is almost non-existent now, given the exorbitant carbon costs associated with it. On the bright side, the preparation and cultivation of insects has advanced to such a degree that most people can barely tell the difference. I used to be hesitant about the idea, but now I enjoy my cricket granola bars and mealworm tacos just as much as I used to enjoy traditional meat-based dishes. It's a responsibility we take seriously, and one that we're taught from a young age. It's frustrating to think that some of our parents don't understand the urgency of the situation. They seem content to live in the past, ignorant of the harm that's been done, but I won't let their complacency deter me from doing what's right. I'll continue to do my part, to use my voice and my actions to make a positive impact. Perhaps, with time and education, they'll come to see that this isn't just a passing trend; it's a necessity for survival.

I make my way to The Girls Dormitory, and I can’t help but appreciate how clean and modern everything looks. It’s a testament to the fact that even small changes in our habits can make a massive difference. We share community spaces to cut back on carbon, and everyone commits to using as few cosmetics as possible once again as a way to save the planet, but also to go light on our individual carbon credit allotments. It's the little things that add up, and I'm proud to be a part of a community that takes these issues seriously. Inside the dormitory, I was greeted by my fellow residents, all of whom were equally committed to the cause. We chatted and caught up on our day, I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie. It's not just about saving the planet; it's about coming together to create a better future for everyone.

After a long day of classes, I find myself eagerly anticipating the protest I'm attending after school. It's a rally to promote positive vibes within the trans community, and as an “ally,” it's my responsibility to show up and show lend support. It's not always easy to make time for activism, especially when there are so many other demands on my time, but I know that it's important to prioritize this cause. I make my way to the protest reflecting on how far we've come as a society. The world outside my sleeper pod is not perfect, but it's a far cry from the world my parents grew up in. There is greater awareness and acceptance of marginalized communities, and more and more people are willing to stand up and fight for what's right.

Still, there is much work to be done, and it's up to all of us to fight for their rights and dignity. I'm proud to be a part of this movement, to use my privilege and voice to amplify their message. I'm struck by the energy and passion of the crowd. People from all walks of life have come together to stand in solidarity, and there's a sense of hope and determination in the air, a belief that we can make a difference.

I remember the day when the President's daughter came out as transgender. It was all over the news, and there was so much talk about it in my school. As someone who considers themselves an ally to the LGBTQ+ community, I was so happy to see someone in such a powerful position be open and honest about who they are. It gave me hope that one day, people won't have to hide who they are and can live their lives authentically. I admire her because she knew that by coming out, she would be under a lot of scrutiny, but she did it anyway because it was the right thing to do. I think that's what makes her a hero in my eyes.

There has been a slow but noticeable rise in “Phoenix Pods” popping up around the city. These pods offer a painless and dignified way for people with chronic illnesses to end their suffering, and at the same time, they provide a sustainable solution to the issue of burial space. The idea of being planted back into the earth and becoming part of the planet itself is actually quite beautiful, if you think about it. I know some people are uncomfortable with the idea of assisted suicide, but I see it as a brave and selfless act. These individuals are taking on the responsibility of reducing their carbon footprint and easing the strain on our already overburdened planet. It's a sacrifice that shouldn't be taken lightly, but I can't help but admire the courage and conviction of those who choose this path. A person who decides to use the pod also has the option to give their remaining carbon credits to friends and family allowing them to escape climate debt and live more meaningful lives.

I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe as I watched The President’s daughter use one of these pods on a livestream. It was a somber moment, to be sure, but it was also a powerful statement of commitment to Mother Earth. I feel a sense of pride in the way that my generation has embraced this new technology as a solution to the population crisis. These devices have become the symbol of hope and sacrifice, a way for people to take responsibility for their impact on the planet and to leave behind a legacy of stewardship. Her passing was a call to action, a reminder that we all have a role to play; and in the aftermath of her death, there was a renewed sense of urgency and commitment to the cause. The moment was bittersweet, but I can’t help but feel hopeful for the future. Her sacrifice has become a powerful tool for change, and she has shown the world that sometimes the greatest act of courage is to let go.

My family is in debt because they don’t understand the way we do things now. They can't properly recycle, and they use far too much energy. I have tried to talk to them about it, but bad habits are difficult for people to change. I love my life, my friends, and my family but if I was to enter one of The Phoenix Pods, it could make a difference. It could help my family become carbon neutral again. I could be reborn as part of the earth again, and my body can nourish the plants and animals in my local community. It’s a beautiful cycle.

The process itself is clean and efficient. Every part of the body is used to create sustainable resources that can help the rest of humanity thrive. Your body is turned into energy and fertilizer, and anything that can’t be used will be broken down over time. Finally, there is a message board online for only those who decide to use The Phoenix Pods, and you get to make one final statement. Something to leave behind for those who wish to remember your noble sacrifice, or a fond farewell to loved ones.

One would think that thoughts of suicide would have me emotionally distraught, but I feel a sense of peace. I have found a way to take responsibility for my actions, and to make a positive impact on the world around me. I know that not everyone will understand, but I do. Am I willing to do what was necessary to save The Earth? To set my family free? To give back some of what I have already taken?

As I read blogs and message boards, I realize that I'm not alone. There are others like me, who see the value in taking responsibility for our actions, and who want to make a positive impact. Together, maybe we could create change, and perhaps even inspire others to do the same. I know that my decision will not be easy, and that there will be those who will judge and condemn me for it. I also know that I am doing what is right, not just for myself, but for those who will come after me.

I researched the different types of pods available and came across some that are designed for multiple people. The idea of leaving this world with my friends by my side gives me a sense of comfort. We could support each other through the process and leave this world as a community. Are my friends having similar thoughts? Perhaps, we could make the decision together, and in doing so, create a ripple effect that would inspire others to take action in this wonderful act of bravery and love. Love for the planet, and love for those around me who would be impacted by my choices, and love for those who have yet to understand what we are fighting for.

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(Part 2 of 3)

It was dark and cool inside the barn, a welcome respite from a hot and humid summer day. Light struggled to pass through wooden slats of walls, casting faint shadows on a dirt floor. I could hear the soft hum of bees coming from the hives on the far side of the barn. My dad keeps bees, and he's always been passionate about living in harmony with nature. I watched as he gently lifted one of the frames from the hive, careful not to disturb the busy workers. He used to show me the different stages of development of the honeycomb, explaining how the bees work together to create a perfect structure. The honey oozing out of cells, always glistening in the light in the setting sun.

My dad is always experimenting with new ways to be sustainable, and his beekeeping is just one of them. He grows his own vegetables and fruits, and he's constantly trying to find ways to reduce waste. We compost all of our food scraps, and he's even built a rainwater collection system for watering plants and brewing his own beer. My mom, on the other hand, is very traditional. We go to church every Sunday, and she's always reminding us of our duties as Christians.

Sitting down for dinner with my family was always my favorite part of the day. My dad would come in from the barn, still wearing his work boots and smelling like honey, and my mom would be putting the finishing touches on a home-cooked meal. We would all sit together at the table, my two brothers and little sister, along with my parents, talking and laughing as we shared stories from our day. The food was always delicious, but it was the sense of togetherness that made those meals special.

After dinner, we would all help with the cleanup, washing dishes and wiping down the counters. Then it was time for my little sister to go to bed, followed by my brothers and finally myself. My mom would tuck us in, kissing us on the forehead and reminding us to say our prayers. My dad would come in and tell us a bedtime story, his voice soothing and comforting. It was those moments, in the safety and warmth of our home, that made me feel like everything was right in the world.

The next day, I woke up early and got ready for school. It was a small community, where everyone knew each other and their families. Most of the students had grown up together, which to be honest, was always a bit of a challenge for me. Everyone knew each other's business yet despite the occasional gossip and drama, I did like school because of the sense of community that I was able to be a part of. One of the things that made our school community special was the way we accepted everyone, no matter who they were or what they believed in. We had a diverse group of students, and although there were occasional conflicts, we always found a way to work things out. There was a student who was gender non-conforming, and in our small community, that was pretty rare. The student body accepted them with open arms, and they became a valued member of our school community.

The walls of my home-room were lined with posters and artwork, showcasing the diversity and creativity of our community. The cheap hanging shades that covered the windows allowed sunlight to break through, casting a warm glow on the room. The desks were arranged in a circle, creating a sense of community and togetherness, and there was a colorful pride flag that hung proudly on the wall. It had been there for as long as I can remember, even before I was old enough to be in this particular classroom.

While I may have had different beliefs and experiences from some of my classmates and teachers, I always felt accepted and respected in that classroom. That experience taught me the importance of embracing diversity and standing up for what is right, even when it's not the popular opinion. I never felt like I had to choose between my faith and supporting the LGBTQ+ community. In fact, my beliefs have only strengthened my commitment to being an ally and treating everyone with love and respect. I am more than thankful; I realize how fortunate I was to have such a loving family and a supportive community. I carry their memories with me, even as I moved to the city, which felt at the time like a completely new world.

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(Part 3 of 3)

It felt like hell itself, or at least everything I could picture hell could feel like. The cold metal walls of the pod pressed in around me, suffocating me with their unyielding grip. My body was frozen, paralyzed, and trapped in a limbo of my own creation. I opened my eyes, disoriented; confused, my body ached, and my head was pounding.

I remember listening to sinister conspiracy theories spreading lies about how people were actually in pain during the process, every time; or how the tinted windows created to preserve one’s privacy and dignity, combined with the pressurized chamber were there only to hide the screams and terrified faces of it’s victims. A friend tried to talk me out of this, and I wouldn’t have started the process had it not been for my other friend and her fiancé, who are now sitting next to me as we cross into “hell” together.

“There has to be a malfunction.” I kept whispering this to myself, the supposed painless process has turned out to be a nightmare; a torturous journey that seems to have no end. I whispered again to myself that “There has to be a malfunction!” I felt a small glimmer of hope, but as time dragged on and our nightmare persisted, that hope dwindled and transformed into despair. The tinted windows offered no escape, and we were alone in this chamber, left to suffer through whatever fate awaited us. I can see crowds of people outside cheering, calling us heroes. I remember standing in that crowd, laughing and cheering along with my friends who are now sitting with me, just as terrified as I am in our present state.

We had celebrated the bravery of those who had passed on and dreamed of the day when we could make a difference. Despite the intense heat rising from below us, the screams of my friend's fiancé as he pounded on the side of our pressurized pod to get the attention of a technician, and the cheering crowds playing music and roaring as they watched us die, I tried to clear my mind and think of home.

Nothing ever changes, I see my father still working tirelessly in last few moments of the light of the setting sun. My family still faithfully attending church every Sunday Morning; my younger siblings who are still at home are still in grade-school, and none of them have any idea what is happening to me right now. I couldn’t bring myself to tell them, yet they will eventually receive my letter:

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“Dear Mom and Dad,

I hope this letter finds you well. I know it's been a while since we've spoken, but I wanted to let you know that I'm doing okay. I've been busy with work and some personal projects, but I'm managing to stay afloat. I miss you guys a lot and think of you often. I miss you all so much, but please don't worry about me. I'm surrounded by amazing people who share my passion for the environment, and I'm learning so much every day. I want to thank you for all of the love and support you have given me throughout my life. You have always encouraged me to follow my dreams and never give up on what I believe in.

I realize how fortunate I have been to have such a loving and supportive family. Your unwavering love and support have been the driving force behind my success, and I am grateful for everything you have done for me. My brothers and sisters, my niece; they are growing up so fast, and I know they will do great things in life. Please give them a big hug from me and let them know how much I love them.

I know the family is in debt. I also believe that we all have a responsibility to take action and make changes in our daily lives to reduce our carbon footprint. I know it won't solve all of our problems, but I hope it's a step in the right direction. I have decided to leave my carbon credits to our family, I looked up everyone’s credit allotment, and added it up. If I do this we are back to “Net-Zero”.

I want you to know that I'm doing great, and I'm so proud of my decision to take this journey. I know it wasn't an easy one, but it was necessary for me to discover my true calling in life. Please know that I am safe and not alone. I miss you all so much, but I am excited about what the future holds. I will keep in touch as much as I can for as long as I can.

Until then, please take care of each other and know that I love you both very much. Please tell everyone I love them for me; I know they will be happy…

Your loving daughter,
… ”

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The End