The Rhythms of Life
Posted by Carolan Gladden at 8/23/2011 8:51 PM 
Categories: Ideas, Current Events, Experiences, Life, Surprises, Places, thoughts, Music, Amazements, Musicians
Categories: Ideas, Current Events, Experiences, Life, Surprises, Places, thoughts, Music, Amazements, Musicians
I remember a few months ago when (as a second generation Portlander) the first thoughts of moving back formed. In my head and my heart. It was complicated -- partly based on wanting to be close to my daughters, my sister and a few longtime friends. And partly because I had mastered my job and my boss was quitting and my employer UCSD, my city San Diego, my state California were -- and are -- in a mess.
So why not pack it in? Yes, I knew I'd have to re-learn co-existing with rain and cold. And, as I have quickly discovered, contrary to the hype Portland is not all that much cheaper than San Diego. Indeed, living in a perfect walkable area close to downtown and oldtown -- as I am -- comes at a price.
Yet, what I find fascinating is the change of rhythms. Sunrise, sunset, low temperature and high are on a different schedule here. First, the place is further from the equator plus it's smaller, the pace slower, the people friendlier, the downtown more alive -- with musicians of every stripe turning out wonderful sounds on virtually every corner and the main square always teaming with folks and activity. Mostly people are walking or riding bikes or skateboards, Or on and off MAX light rail or street cars that go everywhere, all at a leisurely pace.
And day by day I find myself responding and reacting to my new environment in surprising and joyous ways -- almost like a late life blossoming (smile).
Positively,
Carolan
So why not pack it in? Yes, I knew I'd have to re-learn co-existing with rain and cold. And, as I have quickly discovered, contrary to the hype Portland is not all that much cheaper than San Diego. Indeed, living in a perfect walkable area close to downtown and oldtown -- as I am -- comes at a price.
Yet, what I find fascinating is the change of rhythms. Sunrise, sunset, low temperature and high are on a different schedule here. First, the place is further from the equator plus it's smaller, the pace slower, the people friendlier, the downtown more alive -- with musicians of every stripe turning out wonderful sounds on virtually every corner and the main square always teaming with folks and activity. Mostly people are walking or riding bikes or skateboards, Or on and off MAX light rail or street cars that go everywhere, all at a leisurely pace.
And day by day I find myself responding and reacting to my new environment in surprising and joyous ways -- almost like a late life blossoming (smile).
Positively,
Carolan
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