Upside Down Idiots Club, page 18
“Welcome home, Commander. I’ve been waiting for you.” She spoke as if performing in a hentai anime, her voice high-pitched and excited, as if she was already having sex with him. She turned around and placed one knee on the bed, showing Jack the cottontail attached to the bodysuit. “Are you ready to give me your orders?”
Jack had never been so aroused in his life.
If you could give a lucid dream, it would be given as the most precious of things. Imagine a Soylent Green setting with the world’s most comfortable couch, 360 surround view, and instead of any dystopian overpopulation issues, it was a spa-like visit starting with cool, sparkling water to get the senses started. The room would be in various shades of color and slowly morph into photographs leading up to the dream state. A favorite playlist would be piped in; the last was a gummy on the side table.
Jack brings up the idea with the Saints in a video group call. He says it’s a business waiting to happen and will cater to country club elitists who will pay for any path to extend happiness in their lives.
“There are so many appealing angles to this ideal therapy,” Jack tells the Saints, his gaze imploring them to see the potential in his ideas. “If there were a 20% chance of success, I’d say it was a worthwhile investment.”
Raising an eyebrow, Paul chuckles. “You’re gonna bet the farm on dreams?”
“Why not promise to make dreams come true as well?” said Michael, his expression telling. The crowd is getting a bit juicy around the topic of lucid dreams and how close this sounds to television drama.
Jack shakes his head. “I’m not saying it’s the smartest or innovative idea. It’s just a narrow crack in the ice that may be connected to an iceberg.”
“Let me go out on a limb or brain stem for a second.” Robbie steeples his fingers to his lips. “No one has made a commercial killing anywhere near the dream state, and most people know Lucid as an electric vehicle that costs much more than a Tesla. So, let’s break it down a bit. I can tell you my favorite ice cream, how I like my steak cooked, and which scooter is the best for getting across town, but how do I know my perfect lucid?”
Jack starts to speak, but Robbie continues, slowly lowering his hands from his mouth.
“What if a married guy wants to have a “lucid affair” with his secretary or bully wants to pop off at someone? On one hand, there are therapeutic effects. From a full psychological perspective, it’s both enhancing and dangerous. On the other hand, we do many things to maintain our physical appearances from skin, hair, body shape, and all the many accessories, and yet, we seldom have outlets for our mentally aligned cells. Saying you would see your therapist was acceptable over time, like gender, or pronoun referral. This is like the investment in partial ownership of a luxury jet. It’s an expensive habit for those who can’t afford the real thing.”
“Any other potshots from the gang, the door is wide open.” Jack gives the group a ghost of a smile.
“I’m okay with the premise and think there is a need for this, but it’s like renting scuba equipment in shark-infested waters,” Michael says.
A moment of silence passed, and then Luke eloquently adds, “Or we could carefully limit the traffic, and find sanctuary for those in—”
“Okay, I kicked the hornet's nest with this one,” Jack cuts in, a hint of frustration lacing his voice. “But we’re not quite done with lucid dreaming, weightlessness, and EV launch modes. Let’s keep enjoying our sleep, dreams, and building our enhanced memories.
Jack knows that visionary people see past the noise and confusion in the world. They can see past obstacles with their dedicated and clear vision of the future. Some see these paths with small steps and others with very large leaps. Most are independent thinkers and although they use elements of their surroundings to build their story, the key points are often so unique, the view can be seen as either far-fetched or simply amazing. But independent thinkers also know the power of creating a conducive environment that allow innovative ideas to grow and develop with nonstop passion to achieve what others have not.
Jack has several wall hangings near his office, including the seven natural wonders of the world, and events that marked significant breakthroughs in medicine, science and technology. One picture is dedicated to an algorithm to decipher enemy war communications. Another picture climate change and the final image expressed concern for population growth. Each is impactful in their own way, and even more important is the reminder of greatness.
Greatness comes from the daring and fearless, those who aren’t afraid to take risks and share their vision with others, even if the path is still blurred.
There is nothing new about thinking big, but the idea of having bigger than normal thoughts to create larger-than-life achievements fuel Jack.
CHAPTER
THIRTY-ONE
ROBBIE NEWS
The Saints were all living within about a 30-mile radius of Seattle. They were all in their early twenties, and no one had a partner yet, so there were no excuses for getting together. During one of their outings to Lake Elliot (near where Robbie & Jack are from), they planned a leisure walk to shore, carrying an oversized picnic blanket, lunch and some sports toys including frisbees and Waboba juggling balls. They knew the beach well as they visited almost every weekend in July and August. On this Saturday, the temperature was ideal, in the high 70s. The boys picked their spots and dropped camp for the day.
“Wow, I can't believe how gorgeous it is today,” said Michael. After looking up and down the beach, he continued, “I think we are the only ones on the lake today.”
“Nope, look straight ahead,” announced Joseph. There was a boat far out.
“That doesn't count,” replied Michael. “The people on that boat are testing the edge of the flat earth,” he said smiling.
“Haha, you gotta be kidding,” back to Joseph. “If they disappear, we will know the truth after all.”
The boys knew the crazy conspiracies about the “Flat Earth” and often joked about the phrase ``is it round like a table or round like an apple? For a long time, many critical thinkers, historians, poets and philosophers believed the earth to be a flat disc shape. In the 4th century BC, Plato and Aristotle provided reasons to believe in the globe shape. Although word spread about this theory, nearly 1000 years later during the Middle Ages, it was thought that the earth resembled a wheel.
“Hey,” Robbie yelled, “let’s go for a walk around our spherical world,” he grinned and waved in his direction.
As they headed off, they walked in a pack with a small enough distance between each other to hear any conversation. And as they walked, they talked and talked. One after the other, there was never a lull in the magic and mysteries that went on in their minds and transformed in their discussions. The beach brought them out in a way that made perfect sense. The crashing of the waves and the solitude of the shore allowed them to express themselves freely to one another. Today’s various topics included Luke’s interest in where pelicans sleep at night, Michaels unending imagination about sailing around the world, Joseph’s creativity with the colors in the sky, Paul recalling lyrics that speak to their joy and togetherness and finally, Robbie reminding the team that they were children of God and that their days were fulfilled by a plan.
Their journey out was nearly a mile and Robbie signaled for them to turn around. The boys all wore sunscreen and hats to keep the ultraviolet away. They protected their eyes with polarized glasses with brands including Maui Jim’s, Ray-Ban and Nike. As a casual observer might suggest, they looked very cool.
Michael sprinted ahead to create some distance. He had the frisbee ring and threw it sailing back just overhead of everyone. It floated for a bit and then crashed diagonally to the sand. The mini game began, and the group spread quickly to form a circle. It was organized chaos and between awkward throwing and lousy catching, no one really knew what they were doing. Perhaps the two lefties, Michael & Joseph, had better-throwing aim, but it didn’t really matter. Robbie reminded them that it was never a contest with this group and just watching each other in play was enough.
They crashed down on blankets back at the picnic spot. Luke grabbed the speaker and connected his phone to music play.
“It’s time for Elton,” he shouted.
“Hey, let’s try some Simon & Garfunkel or Beach Boys,” said Robbie.
“Queen, I want some Queen Bohemian Rhapsody,” chimed Michael.
“Ok, we’re gonna take it back to the 60’s with some Peter, Paul & Mary,” Luke said. He played Leaving on a Jet Plane, and the team settled into this groove. They opened the basket of food and distributed sandwiches and chips. As the first song ended, Luke cranked the volume up and announced, “here’s another favorite.” The song came out, “Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea…,” and everyone made the gesture of raising a joint from their lips to the sky. They were all cool and hanging at a 60’s outdoor gig wishing they had some tie dye wraps. From hammering to blowing in the wind, they enjoyed listening to these oldies.
“To close this set, I bring you the Wedding Song,” said Luke. He stood and began waving his arms softly, whispering, “there is love, there is love,” to the chorus.
“Thanks for playing my dad’s favorite song,” whispered Robbie.
As the afternoon ended, they piled into Michael’s jeep and returned home. Robbie enjoyed the middle “hump” seat and couldn’t help visually navigating the route through familiar streets. They were all a bit tired from the sun and exercise. Next, was dinner for those with an appetite and a Saturday evening to each his own. Luke and Paul were dropped off first, and then Robbie. Joseph, riding shotgun, jumped out to open the door for Robbie and grabbed the empty basket.
“Many thanks for bringing all the food and fixings for our trip. As always, you take good care of us,” said Joseph.
“You know it's my pleasure and I only wish we had more Saturdays at the beach to enjoy.” replied Robbie. “Someday, we will have our own beach and spend more time with warm sand between our toes, and delightful music in our ears.”
“We’d love that all too much,” said Joseph. From the car, Michael shouted, “I'm ok with every day being a Saturday, wearing flip flops, and hanging out.”
“I already miss you guys,” said Robbie. “Hope you enjoy the rest of the weekend and hope to see you on Monday.”
Robbie grabbed the gear and headed up the front stairs to the porch. He turned and waved to “MJ” and made his way inside. He set down his belongings and rested on the couch. He brought his fingers to his temples and rubbed tiny circles. He used his other fingers to move around the sides of his skull looking for ways to massage the pain away. It was becoming a frequent occurrence of his headache pain and nothing simple would relieve the pain. He eventually made his way to the kitchen, prepared a simple Tylenol/Aleve cocktail, and choked down a few over-the-counter pills. Soon, there would be some minor relief. It was another quiet Saturday night, and it was time to play his favorite relaxing music and unwind. Robbie made his favorite chicken noodle soup from a box and salty crackers. The soup was comfort food and made his heart warm. Simple and yummy. Before bed, Robbie looked back on the glorious day with the boys and the joy of being together. Highlights of a warm sandy beach, his favorite Subway sandwich wrap, and social bonds of the Saints that claim the day. Sunday was near and he decided to share the updated news with Jack.
Julia and Tom attended the same church for over 35 years. It was the First Presbyterian Church of Reston with a congregation of nearly 300 people, an energetic choir, and full spectrum pipe organ. There were two services: a traditional service at 11am and a more progressive one at 9am. This Sunday, the Mohr group would get to church early and enjoy the youthful congregation, live music, and multimedia including digital photographs and short videos. Few folks recognized Jack visiting and praised his time in the church. On the drive home, they stopped for deli sandwiches and pasta salad. They would eventually end up on the backyard deck with a chance to relax before Jack’s return flight. The food was really yummy, and Jack said, “I’ve always loved the routine of church and then fresh sandwiches from Pete’s Deli. I remember getting my favorite pepper turkey on a fresh baguette and salad with my favorite fusilli noodles.”
“After today, I regret that we don't always stop at the deli,” said Tom. “Probably from being in a hurry to get to nowhere.”
“No worries, Dad,” said Robbie. “We are all anxious to get to the next event in our lives, and probably a good segway into my next chapter.” Robbie sipped his lemonade and cleared his throat. “You all know about my challenges with AGS and more recently with my immune system showing signs of being compromised. Although my health is considered ok, I would prefer feeling more energetic. My doctors have me on an immunosuppressant cocktail which helps guard off a unique form of lupus, and I am looking into DNA/RNA gene editing therapies through my connections at Cal.”
“How often are you seeing the doctors?” questioned Jack.
“I have local clinic blood draws. Doctor visits include Zoom calls every month, and visits to the clinic every quarter or so in Berkeley.”
“When is your next appointment?” asked Jack. “I’d like to know more about the new therapies and what they hope for with your treatment. And full disclosure, our team at Seres is working with the folks at Innovative Genomics Institute (IGI), especially around gene editing and blood-based diseases. If there is anything I can do to assist in your care, I want to be front and center for support. Please let me know when you have your next meeting, and I will be there.”
Robbie’s care was from some of the finest researchers in the field of immune deficiencies and had experience through AIDS, Arthritis, Diabetes, and Lupus. This included invasions from viruses including HIV, SARS and Covid-19. As an immunocompromised patient, he was an ideal candidate for convalescent plasma transfusions as a potential path to rebuilding antibodies against a host of Robbie ailments. During his recent visit to the clinic, he sat with another dozen patients in their transfusion center. There was a mixture of chemo, blood cleansing, and plasma infusion patients getting through visits that lasted 1 to 4 hours. Robbie was currently ramping up from 1 unit to 2 units per visit. There was plenty of evidence that this therapy was helping victims of post-Covid care. However, this process had limited data on adults with AGS and it was safe to say the team was still experimenting with Robbie.
When Ava finished her competitive years in track and dancing, she was in the best shape of her life. She initially relied on her legs for strength and speed, then later for balance and grace. For the last 5 to 8 years, her body had more physical therapy, hot & cold baths, painkillers, weed, and the occasional corticosteroid injection to ease her pain from hips, knees, and ankles. Although she continued her routines with yoga and stretching, there seemed to be an issue with her energy and stamina. Luckily, physical intimacy with Jack was never a problem. However, the long days of waitressing in heels created a new sort of tiredness that she was not used to. She naturally had a slight iron deficiency and kept a strict supplement regimen to keep her strong through monthly cycles and demands from work. She worked 4 days at the B&W and did freelance dancing for high-wealth clients. The rest of her free time was split between Jack and her artwork, giving her little time to worry about herself.
Ava’s diet started to suffer as she replaced one set of carbs for another and moved from diet cokes to energy drinks and other food substitutes. The daily cycle went from breakfast time with a light protein and lots of caffeine, to midday snacks with liquids filled with caffeine, taurine, glucuronolactone, guarana, ginseng, ginkgo biloba, l-carnitine and more sugars. She replaced the good from coffee and espresso with the bad from artificial sweeteners. Then into the evenings with alcohol or a combination of alcohol and energy drinks, depending on her energy levels. Her amazing ability to compete in sports at an extreme level meant she was filled with optimism, confidence and recently a declining sense of self-esteem. During a recent day off from work, Ava finished a new art piece, and although her work was always filled with her unique creativity, this one had no such energy. As she stood back and looked at the metal sculpture, where she wanted to portrait depth, it was flat, and where she wanted outward expressions of joy, they were replaced with sadness and depression. This was intended for some artists like van Gogh, but for Ava Lewis, it was a dark point and felt uncomfortable. She was reflecting on whether her day job, which was filled with the money elite, narcissist, and otherwise masculine power-hungry people was starting to influence her more than she realized.
She particularly liked Jack as he never played the arrogant card for money, intelligence or status. Ava threw a cover on the art piece and took an afternoon shower to restart the day, with a new purpose. She wore an outfit that immediately made her feel happy, sexy, and ready for a walk. She looked lovely in stretch pants, jogging shoes, and an oversized hoodie. Her favorite smoothie place was a short 3 blocks away and she loaded up on fruit and real sugar. When they asked her if she wanted an energy boost shot, she said “no,” and ordered extra vitamin C for a change. It was late afternoon and she decided to check in with Jack and her text read, “Hoping you’re having a great day,” with extra emojis.
He was delighted to hear from her and quickly replied, “Work is going well with a few new excitements from the genius crew. I know it’s your day off. Did you want to rest or maybe go out for dinner?” replied Jack. “I’m gonna stay in tonight, but I’d be happy to make you dinner at my place,” with three red lip emojis. “Just let me know what I can bring and when to arrive,” replied Jack. “White wine and any time after 7pm,” she replied. She entered the kitchen and assembled the fixings for a Thai chicken dish with her special pad Thai stir fry. She seasoned and soaked the food for a couple of hours and managed a lovely 45 minute nap to carry her into the 6 o’clock hour. A quick second shower with extra bath moisturizer and scents. She wore a flowing skirt with a southwest Asian pattern, a bare tummy section, a sheer buttonless blouse, lovely jewelry accents around her neck, and earrings. Her hair was pulled back to get through the kitchen duties, and soon her place smelled of lovely chicken and vegetable stir fry. At seven, there was a light knock on the door, and Jack entered the “lobby.” She greeted him with a kiss. She had a Cat Stevens playlist working and made the rounds to light several candles. Jack poured the wine, and their eyes met as he handed her a glass. “I’m so lucky to have you in my life,” he whispered. “After your text, I couldn’t wait for the day to end and the chance to come see you.”
