This afternoon, I experienced the most peaceful moment I’ve had since arriving at PSU. Around 11:00 I grabbed a to-go lunch from Irving’s Bagels. As I was heading toward Willard Building, the Hintz Family Alumni Center’s beautiful gardens caught my eye. I entered a small, iron gate next to the colorful Secret Garden, a gift from an anonymous donor, which led down a small dirt path and to the soft, green lawn. I crossed through the moist grass, passing the duck pond to the Ridge Riley’s Bridge. It seemed like a great spot to sit and eat, study or relax. It was full of natural sounds, much different than the normal sounds of campus. The ducks’ quacks were the most evident sounds I heard. The ducks ran around near the pond, chasing students, or launching into the water. I listened to the occasionally stirred water below and the rustling leaves above. A massive tree seemed to lean over the bridge resembling a green rooftop, providing shade and concealment. Today was a great day to visit, with the slight breeze that passed through, I sat very content on one of the cool stone benches of the bridge. I enjoyed my savory bagel sandwich and sat still; just experiencing all that surrounded me. I realized today how much I loved it there because it was an escape. It created a feeling of peaceful separation from the busy bustle of campus life. It allowed time for quiet reflection and most of all, comfort.
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