Fishing in the cold, making friends with ducks and Black History Month
The days are moving so fast I hardly have time to catch my breath. It can only point to the fact that we are into the busy period of the semester, combined with a lot of side activities to engage students’ time. I got involved in some activities, such as celebrating Black History Month while also trying to keep pace with what is going on around me. I also have the privilege of helping undergraduate students with tutorials, laboratory classes and deliver seminars on some of the experimental methods I adopt in my research work to help undergraduate students that would be performing some experiments as part of their courses, especially in the second semester.
Museum visit
I took time out to visit the Nottingham Contemporary, which is a contemporary art gallery. It was quite eye-opening from the images captured of the living conditions around the world. I have always admired artworks, as my mum was a wonderful artist, especially when she was younger. There was a short period where I was into different artwork myself. From making wonderful artworks, painting, carving images and gifts, and calligraphy writing. I have always been in awe of how art is used to convey messages and cultures, while other forms of art are used to express the societal issues in different parts of the world. My time at the contemporary art gallery was fascinating, as the artist captured vividly what ‘invisible’ people go through even in their homes.
Black History Month
There is some special period in the year whereby activities are earmarked to celebrate events all around the world. October has always been celebrated as the Black History Month. There were some activities organised at Loughborough University to mark this. The event I was opportune to attend was the festival where black people, especially women, were celebrated, with some activities such as music and dancing organised at the Students’ Union. There were some messages trying to clarify the misconceptions the society has towards events such as this. The event made me appreciate the all-inclusiveness of the university and how it caters to everyone, no matter the religion, race, sexuality, or background. It feels like home.
Another poignant moment was the the celebration of the Armistice day. It marks and pays respect to those who fought to ensure we have peace and freedom in the world. I always join in this moment to pay respect by wearing a poppy to acknowledge the sacrifices made in the past. I accept the choice people make when it comes to events such as this and they have their reasons for wearing or not wearing a poppy. That is what these sacrifices are about: Freedom.
There was a magnificent display by the university fountain to display the poppies. It shows a beautiful landscape at night when walking through the centre of the university.
Fishing in the cold
I do enjoy occasionally walking around the canal in the centre of Loughborough town. It’s a good way to unwind and take in the beautiful sight, it’s quite therapeutic. In a little way, it reminds me of the city I grew up in (Lagos, by the Atlantic Ocean). I did come across some wonderful sights as the canal passes through some farms. I even got to observe some horses at these farms from afar.
However, on one of such walks, I noticed a long stretch of people fishing. I can only assume they are part of a local fishing (social) club. What really caught my attention was not just the fishes caught, which I assume would be released back into the canal, but the dedication of the people in the cold, just enjoying their hobby of fishing. Oh, I also came across some lovely ducks. They must have thought I had some food for them because they were so eager to meet me. They must have been disappointed, but I did promise to come back next time with a little surprise for them. I can’t help but think they would adopt me as their friend , one can only hope.
Till next time….
David
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