Stephen Yeargin

Colleges and universities across the country are beginning their fall semester this and the coming weeks. Most middle Tennessee schools returned to classes a week or so ago, effectively ending what most of us call “summer.” The calendar will hold that summer has more than a month remaining, but the things that define our concept of the season (vacations, camps, outdoor concerts, swimming) have all drawn to a close.

I prefer the fall. The weather in Tennessee generally holds steady in the mid-70s, with only the occasional evening thunderstorm. My two preferred sports of hockey and football shift into full gear in September and October. I am generally in a better mood during hockey season, even if that means dragging a bit the next morning at work because the game in Vancouver or Calgary went to a shoot-out. I have fond memories of cold nights at football games.

With every season, life seems to pause and give us an opportunity to reflect a bit about where we have gone and how we have grown. I must confess that I cannot give a sufficient answer to that question; I am as much in awe of the world around me as I am befuddled by it. My resolve is as strong as ever, but I cannot shake this feeling of confusion and uncertainty. Most people say it is called “being in your twenties.” What kind of answer is that?

This month I am trying my best to take up reading books again. I have never been much of one for pleasure reading, although I can say that I make a point to read several of the articles from our subscriptions to Wired and Rolling Stone. I would much rather read a concise article than a 300 page book on the same subject. My technical books notwithstanding, my most recent purchases have been books on business and self-improvement. That just about sums up my areas of personal focus.

The apartment is quiet except for the din of an air conditioner units downstairs. I should probably make a point of wrapping up my writing at a decent hour.