Let's light this candle!

original url http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Keep/5228/

No subscription. Just program.

On your computer. You got to use it forever and ever and never had to worry about it going away.

Because it was physically on your computer. As a program. That you actually owned. Not because you got it separately, but because it was a standard inclusion with your computer.

I'm sorry but I'll just never get over it. I remember when companies cared about their products being usable out of the box. I remember when our things belonged to us.

Side note: while piracy can definitely be a way to subvert corporations, supporting free open source software (abbreviated sometimes as FOSS) developed by people who care about maintaining a safe, secure, and private internet is another good way of doing so, with the added benefit of frequent updates that keep the programs secure and modern. Additionally, it is legal to modify the code and create your own version of the software which can then be released under the same FOSS license, producing communities of people who create specific programs or mods that cater to their needs. Being open source also means that anyone with the knowhow can look through the code and verify that there is nothing malicious inside that could be tracking information or otherwise leads to a breach in privacy, which keeps programmers honest and accountable and allows for community input about potential security breaches.

Here's the link to the article of the photo:

Sometimes when an action makes NO sense to us ("he's like a stupid alien"), it's bc we are not understanding its true motivation/purpouse. If his goal was control, financial pressure and limiting her options due to lack of funds, it makes perfect sensie to buy the truck.

This is classic abuser behavior: maneuver the partner into a situation where they feel trapped and cannot escape. The timing on this is too perfect; he saw her gaining agency & power in the relationship and moved to short circuit that.

I am SO GLAD she got out.

If this happens to you, try reaching out to friends & family first. Chances are they've been watching your situation and are aching to help, but have felt powerless. I can't tell you how many times I've watched this scenario unfold. Ask. For. Help. Nobody will judge you, and they're probably waiting for you to make a move. People notice abuse and want to help.

if you feel truly alone, start out with some free online resources.