The Unexpected Wealth from My Car Being Broken Into
Have you ever been worried about your car being broken into? I can relate. Even though I haven’t lost any money from it, I still feel anxious about the possibility of theft. Living in a big city where car break-ins are a common occurrence, I take all necessary precautions to ensure my car’s safety. This includes parking in well-lit and busy areas and never leaving any valuable items in my vehicle.
A Different Perspective
My story is a bit unique. I own a nice new Jaguar, which I rarely drive because of my workplace being one of the highest areas for animal strikes in Australia. Instead, I rely on a 20-year-old 500 “shit box” Nissan Pulsar for daily commuting. This car, although reliable, has a rough appearance due to multiple kangaroo collisions and general wear and tear. Because my neighborhood experiences very little crime, I often leave this car unlocked. In fact, my friends and coworkers sometimes get into my car and leave little "care packages" like notes, snacks, or even loose change inside.
Community Feat
It’s fascinating how my car has become a community feature. On multiple occasions, friends and colleagues have found ways to help me without my knowledge. A few coins, a half-eaten sandwich, or an abandoned magazine are not uncommon finds. Initially, my friends would leave notes suggesting that they felt sorry for me, but they have since stopped. Over time, these little acts of kindness have not just helped offset some minor inconveniences but have also made me appreciate the thoughtful acts of those around me.
A Twisted Sense of Security
Although I have a good job and own a nice house, I am not a wealthy person. My only source of perceived wealth comes from the money left in my unlocked car. Since my car is rarely targeted, I find it rather amusing that money sometimes ends up inside it. One time, a lady even left a luxury watch in my car, but I kept it as a reminder of how my car is considered less valuable than the items left inside.
The Curious Case of Missing Items
On a lighter note, I have had incidences where items mysteriously went missing from various parts of my house. For example, one of my reference books, the "Refidex," disappeared once. It seems my car has become a place where lost or unattended items end up.
Fun Facts About My Car
While my car may not be the latest model, it has its own charm. A few years ago, I had a whole 1963 Holden Special EJ station wagon stolen, but thankfully, it was recovered almost immediately. This car, with its 138 cubic inches engine, had a unique driving experience. Owning an SUV with Lenco Bearcat, I learned that convertibles don’t require locking, and during a live gig, my car was keyed but still managed to stay functional.
Antidotes for Car Break-Ins
Even in the presence of such kindness, one must remain cautious. If you are concerned about theft, one unconventional tip is to leave a non-venomous snake in your car’s glove box with a sign on the window that reads, "snakes inside." This unique deterrent can effectively discourage potential thieves!
Conclusion
My experience with car break-ins is not a typical one, but it has certainly added an unexpected layer of wealth to my life. Despite the occasional lost items, my car has become a symbol of community kindness and a reminder of the care and consideration shown by my friends and colleagues. While it might not be a conventional form of wealth, the various items left in my car serve as a heartwarming reflection of community support and unexpected generosity.