6. Cent Went a Long Way

These days, one cent gets you not a lot. Everything has gotten far more costly; now, we wonder if we could even afford candies from gumball machines anymore? These gadgets gave us a lot for our money even if they were likely somewhat dirty. Actually, we adored using our allowance to fill our pockets; we used to acquire a handful of gum for just one cent.
If you bought some of this, though, you would find that the taste lasted roughly three minutes before it tasted like you were chewing rubber. Still, it was well worth it.
For many children, these gumball machines were a rite of passage rather than only candy dispensers. For children with extra change burning holes in their pockets, these vibrant contraptions were sources of delight standing tall in grocery stores, arcades, and shopping malls. The gift itself was not as wonderful as the expectation of turning the crank and waiting for the gumball to roll down. It went beyond the gum, too. Usually dispensing a range of sweets and tiny toys, these machines made every purchase a little adventure. Realizing you may attempt again for just another cent soon erased the disappointment of obtaining a taste you disliked. This basic pleasure helped us to appreciate money, the excitement of little gambles, and the delight of quick fulfillment. The experience was invaluable even if the gum might not have been gourmet. In the world of digital entertainment and pricey toys of today, there is something to be said for the basic delight of a penny candy machine and the early memories it produced.
