Art & Life by Sue Davis

I always make a detour on my running route to stand on this little wooden bridge and look at the river. I remove my head phones and do some deep breathing; inhaling the scent of the water and the drying leaves. I watch the ducks and wonder what water color pigments correspond to their feathers.

There is an island in the center of the river which directs the water to either side. The left fork is swifter and the right is slower moving. Two paths to choose from, how philosophical.

On one side of the bridge it seems as if the water moves slower than on the other side. I’m sure the velocity is constant and that it just appears to alter its activity; it is manged differently on either side. One side is shallower and has more rocks, giving the impression of a busily flowing river. The other side is deeper and calmer. Same amount of water on either side, same acceleration, yet one side looks more frantic. Makes me think of certain people I know who appear busier than others with the same amount of “water” in their lives. I think it’s all about managing your resources. I prefer the calmer, deeper water. Yet even as I say this I realize that I am attracted to the busier side; there’s so much more to see.

Sue

Here’s what happened: I just finished reading an essay by an Islam scholar regarding the perils of modernity for my latest graduate class. Then I opened up my blog and noticed an older post of mine regarding Rousseau’s concerns with technology and advanced society. This was written pre-class, so I had no idea what material would be addressed in our readings.

This is one of those odd syncretic events that always seem to occur when I take a class. It’s a general state of heightened awareness in which premonitions are not unusual.
I believe these experiences are truly amazing and I cannot imagine myself being uninvolved in a classroom environment. Every subject I pursue creates awareness in previously unexplored areas. I am forever changed.

Sue