Working at one of the most respected centers of marine learning and applied research in the world has its perks. One of my favorite perks is this amazing view which can be seen from almost every east facing window at the Fisheries and Marine Institute of Memorial University of Newfoundland (Ridge Road campus). This panoramic view includes a large section of the City of St. John’s, with Cabot Tower and the North Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
I’m treated to this view multiple times a day; when I arrive at work, drop by the cafeteria for a coffee, and run to and from meetings. Even though I’ve taken it in hundreds of times, I still find myself stopping and appreciating its beauty. There’s nothing quite like a front row seat to watch a fog bank roll in and engulf the city, the harbor churn in the middle of a Nor’easter, or perfect reflection of a calm and cloudless day.
I love this view of the ocean because it’s a reminder of where I came from.
I grew up with the ocean as my front yard and my playground. It wasn’t until I moved out that I realized how much I missed being next to its constant lull. While our campus isn’t quite close enough to hear the waves crashing on the shore, I’m still reminded of home each time I take in this view.
It can be hard to describe to someone who hasn’t lived by or spent time on the ocean, but there’s a feeling – a pull that draws you back no matter how long you’ve been away. The day’s problems, however big they may seem, are lessened whenever I take in this view and catch a glimpse of the water. Regardless of the season or the time of day, this view never fails to both ground and energize me.
Roosevelt was right; a smooth sea never made skilled sailor, but it does make for an inspiring view.
This post is part of our #CampusSnapshots series, a fun look at our favorite spots on campus. We will see pictures snapped by #SApros of all kinds and hear why they love that spot! For more info, please see Sabina’s intro post. Be sure to check out other posts in this series.
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Podcast With Conor McLaughlin on SA Work-Life Balance
