Evergreen part 7

Jim was just about to back out when the doors started to open. Chuck was there waving as usual. Jim liked the obese guy. He reminded him of an old novelty character - Santa Claus. "Hey Jim, need the usual?" "Yeah Chuck, if you don't mind." "Things have changed here Jim..."

Evergreen part 6

The place had smelly people crowding around outside of it. Food was passed out like they were feeding cattle. The unwashed masses gathered and huddled together, mostly families and strays. This was the place known as a 'depo'. For a select few heaven on earth - free food to those who wanted it. Jim passed around to the back where the depo allowed vans and other cars that still worked in. He hoped the person on duty would recognize him or this would all be in vain. He pulled to just in front of one of the doors. It refused to grant him entrance. Jim smacked his hand down on the wheel in frustration. Now he was on his own.

Evergreen part 5

As he rounded a bend Jim's mind swam back, back to his years of starving as a kid. His mother and father would go days without eating just to make sure he had enough to survive. they traveled night and day wondering from one place to the next. Jim came to a stop sign and stopped. Absently he wondered if anyone else still stopped at these things, or if there were even cars left on the road for it. As the van drove his mind swam. Images of death and decay riveted themselves to the forefront. He did not at all know of a utopia. He marveled at the fact that he could read. Just a bit more and he'd be there. The most luxurious place for miles.