0.0000002857

I bought a shirt at REI, a store that I am not one to frequent. While I was there, I caved and bought a lifetime membership in their outdoor sports co-op for only $15.

As I understand it, a co-op is not like a normal company, because as you join it, you actually become a part owner with all the other members. That makes me one of REI's newest part-owners!

Wait, can I retract an exclamation mark?

I got my confirmation email today. I'm sure in an effort to boast, they told me that I am one of 3.5 million adventurers who have joined the co-op (apparently I'm an adventurer).

Before I go on, I just want to say that I am grateful for the perks of being a member, and really that was what prompted me to put down $15 in the first place. I was however, more than a little disappointed by what that means for my share of this thriving enterprise.

This whole "membership" arrangement leaves me owner of a measly 1/3,500,000th of the company... or 0.0000002857. We could say 0.00002857% to make it sound more impressive, but that is all just smoke and mirrors now, isn't it?