So when I was leaving Waynesburg the other day I thought I came up with a great idea that I’ll call: No maps and no main roads.
And I did just that. For as long as I coud take it I drove on backroads with no particular care for time or place, no urgency to be anywhere other than where I was. Well back to back days of backroads was enough for me. I saw a lot of backyards, empty lots, overgrown areas, etc.
Nothing new to report about the trip and nothing new to report on Artie for two days, so I guess it’s the right time to talk about one of my other motives for taking this trip. Just between us, here’s my little secret: I feel like I’m in a transition stage of life, a time to choose betwen two paths. One path is to continue taking English grad classes in Mt. Pleasant which invovles very little uncertainty. Basically I’d take classes for another year or two and complete an MA degree. The other path involves a bit more uncertainty, a bit more change, a bit more faith.
The other path involves leaving Michigan, where I’ve lived my whole life and where my family lives. It involves making a decision to dedicate my life to writing, therefore attending a university which offers an MFA degree. This often considered terminal degree would allow me a greater chance of acquiring a job dedicated to writing, such as teaching. Changing states and schools wouldn’t happen until fall 2009, but greater changes would happen more quickly. Changes such as devoting my time more to reading and writing, allowing my decisions to be made with regards to what is best for my (and others’) writing, and focusing on publishing my poetry.
As I write this I have already decided on path #2 and have begun researching MFA programs around the country. I’ve also started changing my routine a little already. Upon awakening I spend an hour reading before starting my day. I set aside specific time each day to write. I also make certain to read the poetry of others each day as well.
Since I’ve made this decision one thought resonates in my mind every day: “I feel more like myself.”
I pray we all feel more like ourselves today. peace
