Milk Duds and me...

So I entered Sterling's finest do-rag/BlackTail/40 oz retailer in search of a pre-slumber sugar rush. For those who have been to the aforementioned establishment, you know that it is an understatment to call their candy selection 'vast'. I strolled for what seemed like minutes through the colorful displays, acknowledging the both subtle and conspicuous attempts at sensory seduction laid out by the masterminds of candy marketing and advertising. While most might find this somewhat intimidating, I walked with confidence and ease. And perhaps a little extra 'pep' in my step, as they say. You see, for me the decision was clear before I entered the market: I would walk inside and purchase my 'old faithful' of saccarine treats, the yellow and brown laden box labeled Milk Duds. Interesting choice, I know. The packaging has never been what we'd consider aesthetically appealing, nor are the little brown globs often stuck to the inside of the box (after an arduous and swealtering commute, i suppose). But I believe that it's precisely these consistencies that bring me back every time: the unchanging face of the Milk Dud. In a time where I am constantly thinking about the future and change, the Milk Dud allows me to hang on to a small piece of tradition and past. In any given candy store, you'll notice no "Milk Duds with nuts" or "new and improved Milk Duds" or "Milk Duds gum". This, to me , sets the product apart from the rest. There is no striving to increase sales, reach more people, etc. The candy is content with the fact that those that know, know. And those that don't will spend more time and money in such a store searching for their own new tradition, only to discover that whatever product they've chosen will most likely not even be on the shelves on their next visit. Milk Duds have always been, and will be until the end of time, an unchanging slice of the American Dream that allow me to push forward and explore the unknown future of my existence and offering me refuge in tradition when things get shaky. Thank you Milk Duds.

The photo above was from the time when I got to meet Milk Duds in person.