Inside Furman is published quarterly by the Furman University Department of Marketing and Public Relations. For story ideas, e-mail John Roberts, editor.
A place without time
By Frances Ashley
In a place without time nothing changes, I'm told.
It reminds one that, no matter what changes abound,
There is a comfortable sense of familiar rhythm to be found.
So, what is it about this place that makes me forget that I'm growing old?
Among us are the youthful beauties, so ready to learn and do it all.
They are filled with sky-high hopes, floating on air with no boundary
To what they can learn and hear and do in this quandary.
Is it true that there's a youthful secret in the fountain at Gambrell Hall?
The ducks, geese and swans look just as they were
On the very first day I came to this place.
Even the old black swan is still up for the chase.
Do you think he'll retire with Dr. Brewer?
The old buildings still look as new as the new ones look old.
There is less grass to fertilize, less space for it to grow.
The tall trees are fewer, yet there's always a spot for the hawk and the crow.
Did you see the red hawk swish BC's head, as it dashed for a squirrel in the road?
The clothes are more expensive and the skirts, much shorter.
Styles come and go and appear again; some call the look retro.
Shopping at Goodwill and Salvation Army is the thing to do.
Do you think the students know we wore mini skirts when we were younger?
Many faculty and staff still drive their cars of the eighties.
There are a few exceptions, such as that spunky grey Audi and the convertible Miata.
You'll want to keep your distance from the multi-decaled Toyota .
Don't you know not to park in the space of an artist?
As CD and I remember the special people who have passed through this place,
We laughed and cried at the twenty-five years of memories, too many to count.
I looked across the table at her and she, at me, through eyes of friend and confidant.
Is there something different about us, old friend; are we still up for this race?
A reality check is due as the age of retirement draws nearer.
Keeping mind over matter becomes the real challenge.
Emotions abound when the body begins to cringe.
Can we formulate a plan to stay just a little longer?
The changes to the campus and our bodies are quite clear.
But time can't age our youthful hearts nor deny our commitment.
A faithful staff, a well-rounded faculty, a youthful environment,
Fine leaders with a vision, all contribute to the answer.
The students come and grow, filled with knowledge and passion
To teach and lead and pass it on in this ever-changing world.
What is it about this place that keeps us young and vital, that never changes or grows old?
It's the people, who share what they know, who serve with love and compassion.
The author is an administrative assistant in the art department. The work was submitted on her 25-year anniversary at Furman.