Amway Tapes

I used to collect Amway tapes at garage sales in Ann Arbor back in the 80s. They were plentiful and cheap, and nobody wanted them but me. I first got them to reuse for correspondence, but then started listening. I found the tapes inspiring, though I was never tempted to become an Amway distributor. The tapes did make me realize that my impoverished graduate student way of life was not necessary. Inspired by the tapes, I became aggressive and self-confident. I stopped being the bookish loser and gradually created a more agreeable life for myself. This did not make me popular in graduate school, but I often thought of the Amway observation that the people in your social circle who try to control your behavior will never take any responsibilty for your needs. Instead, they will impose costs on you, with an implied threat that they may withdraw their worthless and ever-doubtful social "approval."

posted by johncgreen@gmail.com @ 8:25 AM 0 Comments