8.20.12
I don't think the aura that surrounds college bookstores will ever wear off for me. I was there today this time at University of Nebraska Lincoln on the first day of classes. Despite the potential deterrent of both thousands of other students on similar missions, or the significant diminishing of one's bank account balance I instead had an overwhelming sense of excitement, joy and anticipation like few other places on earth have given me. Being a college student again (for the fourth time) I'm not sure whether it's the crisp pages of newly printed text, the allure of the empty notebook or the perfectly smooth fine line pen with ink in your choice of colors from anywhere on the rainbow, but in amongst the texts and t-shirts, I felt nothing but energized and alive.
Does everyone else get giddy at the prospect of spending hundreds of dollars to fill their heads with the latest and greatest that research and knowledge have to offer? Perhaps. Did the rest of the people waiting in line with me realize the unique and magical world of college that they are now a part of? Doubtful. Perhaps what is more likely is the nostalgia I feel for the times in my life when I have been in college, the promise and the potential all coming together in this moment, this day.
I'll probably visit the bookstore often, so I can remind myself to look at the world with the optimism and anticipation that is present somehow only in this place, and each time relive great memories and experiences as I eagerly continue to be a learner in the classroom of life.
PS - I would be remiss not to mention the Carleton College bookstore too, where it all began.
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