Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Are Bizarre Things Happening Because October is Coming?

I'm starting to think that fate {definition-an event (or a course of events) that will inevitably happen in the future} truly rules the course of my actions. Perhaps it's my surroundings contributing daily to these happenings. Possibly, I'm genetically inclined to such behavior (though past has proven this isn't probably the case). But bizarre happenings are occurring.

I live in Eugene, OR. [yes, that is weird, but a topic for another day]

I'm starting to think that, after immersing myself in the culture that is Eugene, it may be impossible to resist conforming to a certain extent. Granted, never in this lifetime will you find me wearing patchouli. I wont be caught with my toes enjoying soggy surroundings in Birkenstocks & wool socks. I will not be found driving a Volkswagen van (though I'm still fond of the old-school square-back VW's). I wont be attending either the Country Fair or the Eugene Celebration.

I'm talking about something that is more offensive than I care to admit. I've spent years swearing I wouldn't. I fought teachers in my freshman year of high school, and the battle has never ended. I will not be me. I will not cross that line. I will not become one of them.

Last night I found myself, yet again compromising... conforming. The waffle iron has won. I donned my Nikes, slipped into the cool darkness, turned up my iPod and started running.

It's true. And this isn't the first. I'm starting to feel like I need a daily fix, to feel the light breeze in my face. I need the adrenaline rush that comes from dodging cars that almost hit me.

After all, I live in "Track Town USA".

I may never help carry that title with grace (please don't laugh when I run by, stumbling!). I may not even carry it long-term, or hold my own in any marathons. But living here, in the spirit of all the title embodies, I can't help but partake. And I can't help but think that maybe all of us should join in, bringing our own unique style to the fun.

So, if our eyes meet in the dim light, our feet moving faster than a walk, I promise to not laugh. After all, I'll be the one wearing the bright red cape.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

So you are the one in the red cape!