Town and Gown

Whenever I’m planning to leave for a vacation, people inevitably ask if I’m “looking forward” to the trip.

As I’ve shared before, this question takes me by surprise because I live in the moment. I focus on what is happening now, rather than in some unknowable future. This enables me to remain curious and open-minded to whatever opportunities and experiences come along.

I’ve noticed that, over the years, I’ve enjoyed both “Town” and “Gown.”  I enjoy the “real” practical world of non-academic, business and work. That’s the “Town” part.

The “Gown” part is Academia.  Perhaps that explains why, throughout my business career, I have continued to attend classes and seminars in the afternoon and evening. In this way I went on to obtain an M.S. in Education and an M.A. in professional writing – in addition to my original accounting and law degrees.

I knew a doctor who, after he retired, enjoyed attending classes at UCLA Extension. Just because someone is engaged in a particular career, or retired, doesn’t mean they have to close themselves off to other pursuits.

All of the above is leading me to reveal that – yes – Daveen and I are taking a cruise from Vancouver to Alaska, leaving later this month. To be clear, however, at this moment I’m enjoying writing my blog, and nothing else.

So I assume that soon you will hear from me writing from Sitka or Juneau.  Also, for one week in August, we will be at the Edinburgh Festival —enjoying many theatrical performances. Ten years ago I began writing this blog in Edinburgh — in my hotel room between performances. It’s been a wonderful ride.

But I can put my normal life on “hold” for just so long, and not forever. I still have things to do and people to see.

Not to mention many more blogs to write.

Alan