Corn Dreams

There are cornfields near my apartment. In fact, there are cornfields in a lot of places near where I live.

At first, I had no idea that I was surrounded by lots of cornfields. I just knew I was surrounded by fields that silently painted tranquil beauty.

But now, there is plenty of corn.

It has been remarkable to witness the constant transformation of an agricultural landscape. Each week, there is noticeable change. You can actually feel it. When I go on a run, or drive my car, or ride my bike, I sense the change. I soak in the new beauty with each and every change.

The stalks are higher this week. The leaves are taking shape. The golden wheat has been cut and harvested. The soil has been tilled.

It is remarkable.

And, it is not like Kansas. No offense to people who live in Kansas, but Jayhawk fields aren’t nearly as stunning as Rhineland fields. Kansas has vast tracts of never ending cornfields. Where I live, the plants vary and the fields are smaller. Groves of trees and rolling hills give perspective, and the color combination of golden wheat, vibrant green stalks and fresh brown soil truly stirs the heart.

I never thought I’d say it, but I think it is good to live by cornfields.

And, in a couple of weeks, I think the corn may help me fulfill a childhood dream.

I’ve always wanted to run through the rows of cornfields like kids do in movies. Run and run and run. And then, lay down to catch my breath and be enveloped by giant stalks of corn and a sliver of blue sky. Then, run and run and run again.

Now, the corn is about four feet high. I’m hoping it will grow to six in a few more weeks. Then, I can run into a row and not look back. I can be hidden for a while in the midst of the cornfields of my new hometown.