Walking around campus, I have noticed the environment change from a lush green landscape to a crisp, earthy mix of yellow, orange and brown. Not only has the scenery begun to transition, but the atmosphere of the school and it’s students has begun it’s decent into a colder mindset. Northfaces are starting to appear by the masses once again, and although I am guilty of enjoying it’s comfort, it makes me sick to see a sea of black fuzz balls cramming onto the buses every time I’m outside. The days of walking in tanks and shorts are just about passed us, and as depressing as that can be, you have to find something fun and entertaining to do no matter the temperature or forecast.
Luckily for us, mother nature gave us a beautiful reality check this weekend that it is only the middle of October and there is hope left for remaining days of sunshine and warmth. I took advantage of this by spending my time in one of my favorite places at Rutgers. Passion Puddle.
Passion Puddle
Everyone knows about the Passion Puddle myth. If a Cook College dude and a Douglass College girl hold hands and walk around the pond a few times they will be engaged shortly after. This is a romantic tale that I have no problem with, but the true charm of this pond comes from it’s remote location and the relaxed environment it creates for anyone who takes a moment to appreciate it.
On Sunday afternoon, my friend and I traveled back to Passion Puddle for a night time experience. We spent most of our time in the fields on the other side of the pond. We set up camp and spent the next two hours looking up. At first the dark blue background of the night sky gave all other life solid dark,yet unique forms. Trees, birds, bushes, squirrels, and other people walking around seems to mesh together as they moved, yet were individually defined. The wind gently swayed branches around. Bats flew spastically above us, crossing our gaze to disappear into the dark form of trees, and reappearing just as quickly.
Once total darkness settled in the stars stole the show. Any constellation in the sky was visible, along with five spotted meteors burning up in the atmosphere. By the time we took the REXL back to Livingston, everything in the world was right again.
Need to study? Take a trip to Passion. Just got done studying? Relax at Passion Puddle. Need to release energy? Toss a ball or frisbee around Passion Puddle or take a jog on the gravel path surrounding the park. Need a place to sit and be alone? Passion Puddle never will refuse your company, and there is a 100 percent chance that it will help calm your nerves.
Here’s a song to vibe to while enjoying your time on Cook.
R U Nation 