Nature Journal #7: Thinking like Thoreau

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This unique Halloween class was an absolute delight as we embarked on a campus-wide scavenger hunt adorned with thought-provoking quotes from none other than Henry David Thoreau. I absolutely loved this group’s creativity in allowing us to venture outdoors through the engaging activity of a scavenger hunt. In doing so, we forged connections with various classmates, gaining a deeper understanding of each other. Furthermore, due to the arrangement of the classroom, getting to know the individuals not seated in close proximity can be rather challenging. As mentioned before, I am a social individual who loves connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and walks of life. In doing so, I hope to uncover common interests while broadening my perspective as an ethical thinker and global citizen.

Traversing through campus in an attempt to piece together the Thoreau quote leading to the mystery building proved to be a bit challenging. One clue in particular stumped us: “as the nation grows, so does its entities, but Thoreau criticizes their purpose. Find the college where this trade occurs!” Immediately, reactions from the group supported the Neeley School of Business as being the correct answer. However, differing opinions emerged and argued that trade, in this context, might be associated with economics and thus belong to the AddRan College of Liberal Arts. This situation exemplifies how individuals interpret the same piece of information in entirely distinct ways.

Yet, approaching information with diverse perspectives is not a disadvantage; in fact, it is crucial for our survival. This diversity of thought fosters innovation, problem-solving, and a more comprehensive understanding of the world around us. Henry David Thoreau himself perceived the world through a lens that diverged from the conventional perspectives of his time. He rejected societal norms and sought a deeper connection with nature and the self. Thoreau spent his time in a small cabin on Walden Pond reflecting on simple living and having an appreciation for life’s inherent beauty. His ability to see beyond the ordinary and question societal constructs left an enduring legacy, inspiring generations to view the world through a lens of introspection, individualism, and harmonious coexistence with nature.

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