Why do you live here?

Je suis enchanté

UMaine student newspaper endorses same-sex marriage #marryME

1 Comments

• Ashley Pierce said:

  The intensely colorful package of Portland comes with a warning in very fine print that all should be highly aware of; Portland can be the magical shrinking city. I don't mean that in a literal sense because Portland in fact, is the perfect sized city and has been this way for many years. Not too big, not too small; it is a comfortable fit with room to breathe. But as soon as you break up with someone, or have an unpleasant encounter with a local, the city becomes much, much smaller. It seems that everyone knows everyone here, even if they have never actually met the person before. Word becomes like the ocean in a fierce storm and washes over the city in a matter of seconds. If caution is not taken, Portland can slowly but surely eat you alive because of this.

  However, I notice this shrinking characteristic of Portland doesn't always have to be looked at as negative. It can have quite a positive effect. Everyone knowing everyone makes it very easy to become fast friends with many people you, at one point, only considered a quick acquaintance. This city works together. Neighbors aren't just neighbors, they're friends. The local businesses don't look at you as just a number-you're treasured as a customer and are given much respect. It's rare to have an unpleasant experience at places such as Coffee by Design, Longfellow Books Hot Suppa, or Club 21.

  You're never let down when it comes to being intrigued with Portland, either. So much history is embedded in the cobblestone, wrapped around every lamp post, hidden behind the corners of buildings in the Old Port, plastered to the pier with the salt and dried up sea urchins. Portland has something to offer to everyone, you just need to be patient and enter it with an open heart.

  April 24, 2009 3:56 PM

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