When I first entered graduate school and the Allen lab, the memorable Garcia met me for drinks one afternoon at this semi swanky place in Madison that no longer exists. It was a wonderful experience that helped me feel like part of the lab and there were specific moments I've carried with me that I now reflect upon with an Indian Jones type grin.
I distinctly remember him talking about how he loved the city....the continual stream of interesting experiences, the bustle of people, the night lights and flow of energy. At the time my reaction was repulsion at the thought of that type of life. I thought a 'country girl' like me could never adjust or feel comfortable in a big city. How could constant stimulation be healthy? How could the lack of privacy, space and solitude every be a good thing???? I vowed I would never, COULD never live in a big city. It wasn't for me....I would drown in the homosapien sea, go crazy and be sick with longing for forests, stars and horizons.
But opportunity called and I choked back my fear and disgust. And now, on my last day in the biggest city, I realize what Garcia was talking about. I get it. And yes, I could live in a big city....at least for a while (and as long as I don't have bedbugs:).
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I too am eating my words. through a series of scarcely believable circumstances I recently realized that I will have to remain in Chicago for at least for another year. My fiancee will be moving--without me--to the wonderfully small and sleepy Santa Cruz, to live in our amazing apartment, a 5 minutes walk from the beach.
ReplyDeleteAfter living in the big city for a number of years, I unconditionally rescind any endorsement. There are of course many wonderful things about city life but on balance and over time I found living here depressing and depleting to the soul.