I have lived in Middlebury for going on three years now, and at times adjusting to life in a small town has its challenges. Things close early, and I mean early. We have the ubiquitous Essenhaus sign that says, "Open Late, Shop Til 8." No restaurants open really past 10. Small things that take a little adjustment when you grow up in a city when things are open much, much later, and there is generally just more activity.
Well, some of the things I have grown used to from living in Middlebury were put in some perspective today as I traveled to Indianapolis for a seminar tomorrow on Medicaid. Once I got into town, I rolled down my windows, as I love driving when I can feel and smell the wind. First thing that struck me was how much louder and more energetic everything outside my car was compared to my drive home from work everyday on a two lane country road. The experience continued all night, from walking around downtown and feeling and sensing the energy of the hustle and bustle of people, to sitting in my hotel room and constantly hearing noise from cars and walkers by from the street outside. In our little small town, we have a genuine experience of peace and quiet.
Yet, part of the experience is the same. When I am outside with our dog late at night, and all you can hear is the soft rustle of leaves and grass as the wind blows, that moment is filled with life. And when I walk around downtown here, and the place is buzzing with human interaction and activity, that moment is also filled with life. I think both may be necessary. The trick is to obtain both, and in that all important right balance.
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