I was walking back from class last week when my iPod began playing a song that slowed my pace and heightened my consciousness. Every day provides another reminder that coming to Ohio State was the right decision, but hearing “Where Have All The Good Times Gone?” by Van Halen made me realize that these years will not last forever. Another year is about to pass and I am left asking that very question.
The completion of another school year does not seem possible. Time flies on a college campus, especially at OSU, probably because there are so many things to grab one’s attention. This year was no exception.
It was a year that made history. The inauguration of the country’s first African American president provoked much debate and discussion among opinionated Buckeyes. The weeks leading up to Election Day were bogged with craziness and emotion. Some were happy with the results, others were not. But time moved on.
It was a year filled with joy. The Mirror Lake jump was a night to remember (for those who can). That night initiated a year of many triumphs over our neighbors to the north. Additionally, I remember the joy people exuded after hearing that the following day’s classes would be canceled due to bad weather. These were moments cherished by all. But time moved on.
It was a year of comic relief. Sure, some great comedians perfomed on the banks of the Olentangy, but arguably the richest humor came from some of OSU’s staff. I’m not sure Ralphie May could write a skit about “gay leprechauns” or a shirt that says “Rub My Nuts” and produce the same level of humor as seeing grown men, high-ranking faculty, fold under the temptations of childhood banter. Embarrassing? Funny? Either way, time moved on.
It was a year mired with controversy. Tucker Max’s appearance in Hitchcock Hall triggered an unrivaled uproar on campus. Some found his writing to be clever and laced with humor. Many others found it deeply offensive. Both sides made their opinions known, as time moved on.
It was a year packed with renovation. The remodeling of the main library and Ohio Union, and the demolition of two eyesores will make an already picturesque campus even more beautiful. These will be sites for all to enjoy, when time moves on.
But most of all, it was a year worth remembering. I will always appreciate times spent with friends, cheering on the best damn teams in the land, or late nights preparing for a midterm. (Maybe not the last one.)
I know my experience at OSU has been fulfilling because the time has gone by so quickly. Therefore, I hope it does not slow down. However, it does seem unfair that the best years of our lives are also the shortest.
That is the compromise of life, and the great memories experienced during these years will only become better while time moves on.
Brad miller is a sophomore in communication. He can be reached at [email protected]..
