Go and Find Your Peace

 

I went off-farm the other day to shop for some much needed groceries and to run a few errands that had been on my ‘to do’ list for about forever.   I had not been away from the farm since our most recent snowstorm back in January. I adore my bucolic recluse life, but once in a while, I do feel the urge to get out and about.

 

I drove to Staunton, to Waynesboro and then back home completing the triangle drive.  My normal path is to either go to Staunton or to go to Waynesboro.  I rarely go to both cities in one trip; hence, I had not driven the section of road between Staunton and Waynesboro for about one year.

 

I was appalled at all the changes. 

 

It seems to me that unchecked residential building has given way to aggressive commercial building.  Every new store was in a new building.  Businesses that were no longer ‘in business’ left behind vacant store fronts and warehouse with large  ‘For Lease’ signs prominently  displayed.  Now, some of these buildings have seen better days, but many are very contemporary and in high traffic areas. These recently once good bones and foundation of buildings are now beginning to deteriorate from lack of use.  Personally, I do not think that a derelict building neighboring brand new construction says much for the atmosphere of the community as a whole.

 

What is wrong with using these still very serviceable buildings?  It seems like everything has to be NEW, NEW, NEW. Cosmetic renovations do wonders to perk up a tired façade.  Random open spaces can remain open adding to a relaxing, more inviting shopping experience.  The January issue of National Geographic had an article about the benefits of open, natural space within an urban environment.  Basically, being out among the trees and grass, even a small greenspace between buildings, can enhance a person’s overall health including reducing stress levels.  Really?  I just thought that was common sense.  But, it seems there is a need for many studies on the subject and as justification for the NatGeo article.  In any case, my common sense tells me to use what is available…reuse, recycle, repurpose.  Stop waste.

 

Maybe these businesses went out of business because they initially overextended their finances on a new building instead of starting small and growing as the business grew.  Common business sense?

 

Needless to say, my short drive drove my stress level up.  But, I am fortunate.  I am usually home among the trees, open fields, mountain views and wildlife - relaxing and reclusing (is this a word?) among the peace and beauty of my natural environment.  No study results are as conclusive to my stress levels as my own, tranquil state of mind.  Most people are not as fortunate to have a private refuge, but a public escape; a park, a riverside trail, even a cemetery, can provide a welcome respite.  Every person has his/her own characterization of what brings peace.  Go out and enjoy your personal retreat.

 

I know where I will be.