Smartystan

With all the candidates, the four founders seemed to be most impressed with one in particular. Wesley Winnington stood at about six foot two inches and possessed green-brown eyes. His skin was as white as dental floss. He had earned a master’s degree in political science at the age of sixteen. His days swimming for the college team proved to be most fruitful as he won six championships. Dr. Strong looked him directly in the eye.

“You come from my alma mater. That’s not a plus, just a coincidence. I’m more focused on your abilities and your virtues as a proxy essentially to this governing body. Belinda canted her head a bit at this last remark. Dr. Frampton leaned in a bit. Go looked serious.

“Yes, and I have my honor as well as my abilities to bring to this table. I’ve noticed all of you construct an entire nation based on free markets and individual liberties. I don’t have to say I’m honest, I have gone through various, rigorous tests to ensure I am in good standing as far as morality is concerned.”

Dr. Frampton asked, “What are you qualified to do when someone misappropriates billions of dollars?”

“I would turn them in at a moment’s notice. But this is telling you. I can show you my impeccable record of being able to inform on students who violated the code of ethics by stealing, cheating, and misusing private property. I was able to pass the aptitude test to even get in this room.”

Go looked up. “So, you have knowledge or virtue…what about the other candidates? Do you not think they possess the same skill sets and ideals as you?”

“I don’t disregard their talents or their sense of morality. I champion the fact that other people who want this job hold onto the same convictions as myself.”

The grilling continued. “What can you say is the best way for these other candidates to be on par with your ideas? What makes you think you can stand before us and not think about the others who are struggling and striving to fill this position?” Belinda asked.

“I––” Winnington started.

“That was a trick question. I already can tell you’re focused on your own selfish, individualistic achievement without harming or deterring others.”

“That’s right. I’m focused on myself for improvement in whatever space I may be lacking. And I don’t care about others as such. I only think of myself in these matters. You’re right, though. I don’t wish any detractions against my fellow candidates.”

Dr. Strong put both arms on the table. The body language suggested that he opened himself up to the young man’s mind. He displayed the fact that he willed himself to listen to what Winnington had to say. He observed his digital file.

“I see here you’ve gone abroad….”

“Yes, I’ve been through Europe, Asia, and Africa. I’m working on going to South America next.”

“That’s rather impressive. And you’re how old now?” Dr. Frampton asked.

“Eighteen and a half.”

“Political science can be quite a challenging degree. Why did you choose it?”

Winnington sighed. “I just wanted to know more about the world. I wanted to know how the functions of government applied to everyone’s lives and to regard the political process as something to safeguard.”

Dr. Smith continued to scroll on the glass tablet. He looked at the young man’s face. He saw it straighten and rest. The young man looked assured. He flipped some blonde hair away from his face. He looked on with the intent of being a true force when it came to the idea of being amongst the founders.

“You’re smart. That makes sense for this country-state. But it appears that you have also achieved something that some of these candidates lack; you have a moral compass. That is rare sometimes, even in this climate where the aptitude test requires people who wish to reside here with a barrage of questions all about ethics. Please, step out a moment and allow us to decide on your potential position as a proxy here.”

“I thank you for your consideration,” Winnington said and for some reason did a proper about face and marched out of the room.

“I think he’s quality,” Dr. Frampton said.

“I don’t know,” Go chimed. “He seems to be the type to busy himself with others’ affairs. I get the snitching and that’s all good, but there’s a limit to all of that.”

Drs Strong and Frampton looked at each other. They knew they would be hiring a white savior in all of this. They knew they would be extenuating the same stereotype that has plagued multiple arrangements with Foundational Black Americans (FBA) as well. Their eye roll seemed quizzical to Go and Belinda.

“What? What’s up?” Belinda asked, concern rising in her voice.

“We’re going to decide,” said Dr. Frampton, “on Winnington. He is the most qualified and best interview we’ve had over these past few days.”

“I agree,” Dr. Strong asserted. “I don’t give a damn what color he is. This is not a mediocracy but a meritocracy. He checks all of the boxes when it comes to being someone of great ability and ethical standing.”

“Should we go to a vote?” Belinda asked.

“I’d say,” Go replied.

“Alright. Bring him back in here. His first vote should be for himself.”

Winnington re-entered the room. He looked almost confused, but the look of confidence washed across his countenance.

“We’re voting on you and you’re part of the process. As a political science major, I’m sure you know how this goes,” remarked Dr. Strong.

Winnington smiled.

“All in favor of instating Wesley Winnington as a proxy member of the founders of Smartystan say ‘Aye!’ All opposed say ‘Nay!’” There were none.

“Congratulations, Mr. Winnington,” Dr. Strong declared. “You’ll get all of the materials necessary for being within this body.”

“I’d like to thank you all. I appreciate this position as close to a founder of the greatest country-state in the world,” he proclaimed. His words appeared full and buoyant. There seemed to be a sense of joy but a bit of solemnity at the gravity of taking on such a role.