The transition from July to August is kind of a big deal here, isn’t it? This year more than most, perhaps, since we didn’t experience the usual level of chill over the winter that allows us to rest and recharge. Traffic never really slowed down; thousands of new people seemed to hop aboard; and the housing boom kept everybody hustling.
With that in mind, I was fascinated to read about the Blue Mind theory proposed by marine biologist Wallace J. Nichols. He has a book out by the same name, which is on my short list. Not for beach reading, because I have little kids, but maybe late one of these nights.
Nichols claims that modern humans shoulder an unprecedented onslaught of information, available to us at all hours of the day and night. This is not news, right? The constant work of processing this information shows up as anxiety and depression. According to Nichols’ theory, most of us are operating most of the time in the Red Mind, a reptilian state of fight-or-flight. Needless to say, this is a valuable state of mind under certain circumstances, but we aren’t built to spend years at a time in the Red Mind.
To counteract the effects of this stress, Nichols prescribes plenty of time around the water. To those of us who have chosen to live here, this is not news, either. My former teacher Jon Harris used to talk a lot about the benefits of fountains and streams; he said that just the sound of running water is soothing to people. It’s even better to immerse yourself, to get a swaying layer of liquid between you and the rushing world. I’m no doubt preaching to the choir, but during the next few weeks, let’s all get into the Blue Mind together.
Phyllis Meras was sorry to pass along the sad news that Ronald, the sheltie who for years worked his charm at Mid-Island Repair, has died. Condolences to the Belain family, and to all the regulars who will miss “the little dog with the big personality.”
Brahmin Thurber is graduating with high honors from Bridgewater State University with a Bachelor’s in applied physics and math. The ceremony will take place on Saturday, July 31 at Gillette Stadium. He will continue his studies at Boston College, working towards a PhD in quantum physics. I know just enough about the subject to find you completely amazing, Brahmin!
Speaking of amazing, a West Tisbury Hawk is flying home and will be back by the time you read this. Fourth grader Keyshawn Devine was injured near his home in Aquinnah two weeks ago, and will be warmly received Vineyard-style at a surprise rally at the high school that both of his parents attended. I have substitute-taught Keyshawn a bunch of times over the last few years, and he’s a gorgeous and smart little boy, the kind who already shows glints of the manly dude he will become. He also used to give my son a run for his money on the soccer field at recess. It will be great to see Keyshawn again.
Rising seventh graders at the West Tisbury School are aboard the Shenandoah this week, my daughter among them. Dropping their kids off at the Black Dog wharf were several other former West Tisbury students; that kind of continuity is surely part of what has kept us here. Typically, Island kids take this voyage after fifth grade, but Covid screwed things up last year. Thanks to Kristen Levine and other organizers who made it happen for these guys anyway. I had a very nice conversation about underwater trains with Henry Emerson and was glad to see Eben Solway brought his fishing rod.
Upcoming events at the library include an outdoor rock concert for kids with the Pinkletinks on Friday, July 30 at 3:30 p.m. On Saturday, August 1, drop by the Children’s Porch for the family craft table. Please wear a mask! (When will that requirement stop feeling weird? I can’t wait until this is over.) The library also hosts weekly yoga classes with Jason Mazar-Kelly, Kanta Lipsky and Hallie Brevetti; check out their website for specifics. And at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, August 3, naturalist Elliott Bennett will lead an owl pellet dissection for kids older than 10. What kid wouldn’t love this? For this program, sign up with lhearn@clamsnet.org.
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