The things I brought back to Utah far outweigh the things I left in Oregon. As with the things I left behind, I have both physical and intangible things that I have brought back with me. I brought back with me a few stunning additions to my art portfolio, a pink petunia named Princess, some pretty sweet sculptures, trinkets and friendship bracelets from friends and many other things that I can't remember now.
Most importantly, though, are those that are untouchable. Ditching my baggage allowed me to more clearly understand myself and what I want. I also gained a kind of freedom and confidence that one only knows when they let go of the issues that weigh them down. It is that freedom and confidence that I have brought back to Utah.
I have also brought back the memories and experiences that cannot be replicated or replaced. Some of these happened on random nights when my roommates and I were just hanging out in our living room. Others were more poignant conversations with professors that continue to shape my artistic expression. Unfortunately I was unable to bring these incredible people back to Utah with me, (although I've done my best to convince them to move out here) but the memories of the experiences we shared will suffice until we meet again.
Thank you, WOU, for giving me what I needed to move forward and to grow. The time I spent in Monmouth, however brief, will forever hold a special place in my heart.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
What I Left Behind
Today was the first day back to school for me. As I walked around the UVU campus I got thinking about my time at WOU. As I think back from the time I packed my bags and started my journey, to packing it back up and heading home I realized there are things I left behind, and there are things I brought to Utah with me.
Some of the things I left behind are physical; a sculpture that I was never able to pick up that is now officially property of WOU, a pretty sweet photo booth backdrop and probably a few small car parts in the parking lot.
The most important things I left behind, however, are those that are intangible. Stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to evaluate who I am and the things that matter to me. When I moved to Oregon I had a lot weighing on my heart and my mind. Being in Oregon allowed me to distance myself, not just physically, but emotionally as well from the things that had been holding me back, allowing my true personality to shine.
Being at home I was afraid that the things that I had been able to free myself of in Oregon would creep back into my life. As I embark on a new school year, however, I am realizing that I was able to leave my baggage in Oregon. Sorry, Monmouth, it's yours to keep now!
Some of the things I left behind are physical; a sculpture that I was never able to pick up that is now officially property of WOU, a pretty sweet photo booth backdrop and probably a few small car parts in the parking lot.
The most important things I left behind, however, are those that are intangible. Stepping out of my comfort zone allowed me to evaluate who I am and the things that matter to me. When I moved to Oregon I had a lot weighing on my heart and my mind. Being in Oregon allowed me to distance myself, not just physically, but emotionally as well from the things that had been holding me back, allowing my true personality to shine.
Being at home I was afraid that the things that I had been able to free myself of in Oregon would creep back into my life. As I embark on a new school year, however, I am realizing that I was able to leave my baggage in Oregon. Sorry, Monmouth, it's yours to keep now!
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