Time

When Armageddon takes place, parking is going to be a major problem.
J. G. Ballard

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The first parking meter was installed in Oklahoma City on this day (July 16th) in 1935. That's right this is the 79th anniversary of the parking meter.  While the traditional gift for an 80th anniversary is oak, I could not find a symbol for the 79th anniversary of something.  (pause)  Maybe it's the parking meter.  That would be kind of a good symbol.  Eventually, it's going to pop up "expired," but until then you've got time to park your butt on earth with that person you are with.

I like parking meters.  Visually, I mean.  They have an interesting shape.  They convey information.  When you pull up to park for "just a minute" and there are 10 minutes remaining on the meter where you park, that is a good thing. 

Maybe parking meters are where "paying it forward" as a concept originated.  They are often at the front or forward part of the parking space.  And if you pay enough, you are paying forward for the person who will park there next.

The word "park" comes from the Old French parc or "livestock pen."  So parking lots are like livestock pens of the modern age.  Instead of tying up our horses at hitching posts, we park our cars in lots.  

Sometimes I just type my thoughts and they don't really go anywhere in particular.  Sometimes there isn't good closure or a line that brings the things all together.

This is one of those cases.  

But I like parking meters.  Happy anniversary parking meters.