At the request of Michael, a philosophy major, Free Thoughts sprang back into action yesterday afternoon. We set up the typewriters indoors (it was cloudy and chilly outside) and waited in the lull between classes.
It wasn't long before some students started to drop by—just enough to keep us thinking. At this time when most leaves have dropped from the trees and the semester's grades are coalescing, many students seemed anxious. Some of them are nervous about passing tough chemistry or biology classes. Others are facing challenges in love, or are wondering what will become of them after graduation. They all appreciated our listening and our reflections.
Another philosophy student, Junie, found us and wanted to give Free Thoughts a try. Junie had never used a typewriter before, but proved to be a natural.
The glorious clatter of typebars rang out in Alter Hall.
Here are some thoughts I typed:
This one brought tears, and afterwards Liz sent several friends our way:
Free Thoughts has become a small, improvised tradition at Xavier. Those who participate either as typists or as muses often tell me that it means a lot; they remember these moments of genuine connection, and treasure the typewritten mementos.
Try it where you live or work!
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