My Town

At the end of the school year, I ended a unit on Thornton Wilder's three act play called Our Town.  It was a new adventure for me in my classroom, a huge risk that certainly paid off.  It is a beautiful play that reinforces the simple things in life, how life goes on in the world around us, even when we feel as though time should be standing still. Its message is simple, and can sometimes be underestimated.  The transience of human life and the importance of companionship are not to be taken lightly.  One of the more powerful lines read in Our Town by one of the main characters, Emily is;  “Do any human beings ever realize life while they live it?”  This question requires some deep thinking and conscious reflection, almost constantly.  Something that most people simply don't have time for these days. 

It is a line that I find myself going back to this summer.  My town of Nantucket, Massachusetts may be one of the most dreamy and idyllic places to live.  People visit one time and then can't help but fantasize on how they are going to move out here forever.  Some actually do, and others make it a priority to visit at least once a year.  As the daughter of a chef and restaurateur, I was taught at an early age to have patience for the visitors.  After all, it is because of them that our year rounders are able to thrive.  This summer I vowed to focus my attention on two main things...friends and family, and I feel that I have done that;  immersed myself with people who get me, don't judge me and are good for my soul.  

While our town is known for its special, eclectic community, it is more well known for its natural grandeur.  This island has places that can heal, replenish and feed the heart.  I have tried to discipline myself in following Wilder's advice and to notice life as it passes.  With three kids, it doesn't happen all the time.  Yet, I find myself more often, breathing in the salty, sun-soaked air around me and feeling at peace in a home that I cherish not only for its breathtaking beauty and aromatic, magical breezes, but for the people.  The people who love living, and laughing while they do it.  That's my town, I wouldn't trade it for the world.  

 “We can only be said to be alive in those moments when our hearts are conscious of our treasures.” -Thornton Wilder