“In humanity’s trails, it is ultimately landscapes which direct our journey. While some look to our footpaths, the greatest imprints will always be found in nature.”
When it comes to Oregon, it’s one of the few places I remember more for its residents than I do for its landscapes.
While most trips I sojourn alone, Oregon is a destination in which I visit family, with both my brothers living there.
What I witnessed from visiting Oregon three times in the past six years is that where you live affects the person you become. An obvious distinction, right?
But nowhere has this been more evident than Oregon, as I saw how my brothers have transformed to living in rural America, far from the metropolis that is Los Angeles. In a way, I was able to understand Trump supporters more from seeing the changes I saw in my own brothers, as they went from city liberals in their 20s to conservative hillbillies in their 30s and beyond.
Oregon averages over 40,000 incoming Californians per year, with a whopping 57% of its residents migrants from other states. So what’s driving the boom?
The state is famous for its nonexistent sales tax, 4 seasons, laidback style, and its bevy of more than 200 breweries and nature trails. It’s kind of how I imagine California would have been a century ago, before Hollywood took over its culture.
So what are Oregon’s highlights?
Topping the list has to be Crater Lake, which is famous for its deep blue waters and clarity. At near 2000 feet deep, it is the deepest lake in all of America and is featured on America’s quarter as an emblem for the state.
In the city of Bend, are several nearby geographical features that give it its moniker of being an outdoor sports gateway for fishing, hiking, skiing, and mountain climbing.
With so many scenic spots and an affordable standard of living, Men’s Journal ranked Bend as one of “The Top 10 Places to Live Now” in 2015.
Though I could imagine living here for a few months, it’s hard to imagine doing so permanently, as my middle brother appears destined. With less than 100,o00 residents, the city feels more like a town and there’s not much to get into at night.
While its craft beer scene is fulsome, I just might drive myself mad from the silence.
But that’s what gives Bend its character. The town isn’t one for those who strive for Hollywood glamour, it’s meant for those who prefer comfort with who they are.
In the bottom-right of the above image, you can make out the tracings of my figure. In a way, this scene encapsulates life in Bend — and that of greater Oregon. At center stage, it is Oregon’s natural beauty that takes precedence, while humanity sifts to the outskirts of her trails and powerful rivers.
I wonder, “How would living in such tranquil bliss have affected my upbringing?” Perhaps it is something my nephew and niece could inform me upon in 20 years.
As it is now, my travels must continue — for there are many more destinations that beckon my arrival. As a proper guest, I must not keep them waiting…