I’ve always been a fan of the classic Canadian television series The Littlest Hobo. If you aren’t aware, this series was actually adapted from an American movie of the same name in 1958, which then branched off into the first television series that ran from 1963 to 1965, and then the one you’re probably more familiar with from 1979 to 1985.

The premise of the show followed a German Shepherd *cough* “Hobo,” as he wandered from town to town helping people out. While by the end of their ordeals the locals always grew to love our little Hobo, he usually needed to head on his way. Unlike Sam Beckett, who was trying to find his way home and had to help along the way before being forced to move on, our little Hobo chose to help, resolved the situation, and then moved onward to the next adventure.

I certainly have an affinity toward this dog with no name. On that subject, it should be noted that our little hero isn’t actually called “Hobo.” During his adventures, humans tended to give him a temporary name for the episode, but it naturally never stuck because he was always leaving and well, it wasn’t his true name… whatever that may be.

I’ve had my own adventures helping where the TARDIS takes me, which was never where I wanted to go, but rather where I needed to be. However, these days there are places I truly want to be. But am I needed? That, I don’t know.

An incarnation of The Doctor was once restricted to Earth only, and that wasn’t quite the same dilemma as now. Being restricted to Earth isn’t so bad. Being restricted to Earth without your TARDIS or resources is much more difficult. Still, the universe itself provides, as if it owes you something and needs to make up for lost time.

How does a universe pay back someone who gave it everything?

I hear there is a new Littlest Hobo project currently in pre-production, though still just in the script-writing stage, and I’m excited to see what will be produced for a new generation.

As I take my leave and move on to my own next adventure, I have decided I’ll keep my name this time.

Regards,

Alexander / Zenchi