Embracing the Joy of Campus Life at the University of Oregon
As a university student at the vibrant campus of the University of Oregon, my days were filled with an abundance of activities and experiences that brought immense joy and excitement. From staying active and exploring the outdoors to immersing myself in the arts, every moment was a chance to embrace the beauty of campus life.
Staying Active and Exploring the Outdoors
On Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, I made it a point to start my day with a refreshing run. Whether it was rain or shine, I would lace up my running shoes and hit the trails, covering at least five miles each day. The lush greenery and scenic beauty of the campus surroundings made every run a rejuvenating experience.
After my invigorating run, I would indulge in various sports activities. Tennis, soccer, and swimming were my go-to choices. The university provided top-notch facilities for these sports, allowing me to hone my skills and have a great time with friends. The camaraderie and friendly competition on the court or in the pool made these sessions even more enjoyable.
Immersing in the Arts
While weekdays were dedicated to staying active, Saturdays were reserved for immersing myself in the world of arts. One of my favorite activities was attending the college symphony orchestra performances. The soothing melodies and captivating performances by talented musicians never failed to transport me to a different realm.
The symphony orchestra offered a diverse range of classical artists and their works. From the haunting tragedy of Hamlet to the enchanting romance of Merchant of Venice, each performance was a testament to the timeless beauty of Shakespeare's plays. Macbeth, As You Like It, Julius Caesar, and King Lear were just a few of the many masterpieces that graced the stage, leaving the audience spellbound.
Attending these performances was not only a chance to relax and unwind but also an opportunity to appreciate the incredible talent and dedication of the performers. The symphony orchestra became a sanctuary where I could escape the demands of student life and immerse myself in the magic of the arts.
Summer Escapades in Ashland
When summer arrived, it was time for a change of scenery. Ashland, Oregon, beckoned with its renowned Shakespearean festival. For two weeks, I would immerse myself in the world of Shakespeare, attending multiple plays and reveling in the rich tapestry of performances.
The festival offered an incredible lineup of plays, ranging from the tragic Hamlet to the comedic brilliance of As You Like It. The Merchant of Venice, Macbeth, Julius Caesar, and King Lear were just a few of the many captivating productions that graced the stages. Each performance was a testament to the enduring power of Shakespeare's words and the talent of the actors who brought them to life.
Exploring Ashland during the festival was a delight in itself. The quaint town exuded a charming ambiance, with its cozy cafes, art galleries, and picturesque streets. It was the perfect backdrop for immersing oneself in the world of theater and embracing the magic of Shakespeare.
A Life of Total Joy
Looking back on my university days at the University of Oregon, I can't help but feel immense gratitude for the experiences that brought me so much joy. From staying active and exploring the outdoors to immersing myself in the world of arts, every day was an opportunity to embrace the richness of campus life.
Whether it was the invigorating runs through the scenic trails, the friendly matches on the sports fields, or the captivating performances at the symphony orchestra and Shakespearean festival, each experience added a layer of fulfillment to my university journey.
Life as a university student should be about more than just academic pursuits. It should be a time to explore passions, nurture interests, and find joy in the little moments. The University of Oregon provided the perfect platform for me to do just that, and I will forever cherish the memories and the joy that campus life brought me.
After UCLA College of Letters where I obtained PhD is Philosophy, Psychology and Religion I got a teaching job at the University. I felt uneasy teaching. I applied for a job in the mental health field; I got many offers and within two years was running the mental health center where I worked, supervising psychologists and psychiatrists who have been in that field for many decades.
Eventually, I felt bored by the job (of been executive director...I was barely thirty two years old when I was the executive director of the largest mental health agency in the city where I lived) and quit and tried doing other things.
Nothing I tried worked out for me. So, I did other executive director jobs but eventually wound up quitting and returning to college teaching until I felt that teaching is too easy for me; I felt unchallenged being a college professor (I filled my time writing on assorted subjects that interested me).
Eventually, I realized that I have a destiny and fate. My normal routine is to read until I go to sleep (although there is a huge TV in the house, I seldom watch it) and get up around 5 AM, think for a while, and then go to my computer and type the thoughts that I just had in my sleep.