Last weekend I had to spend a lot of time in a Fremont hospital looking after a family member. I’m happy to report that she’s doing much better now. In those three nights I helped as much as I could and made a little spot for myself on the recliner in the corner of the room. Hospital stays are full of stress and anxiety—I was starting to feel it. As much as I wanted to stay in the room to be present in case a nurse or doctor came in with updates, I had to eventually feed myself.
So, once a day I would leave the hospital room in search of the quickest and closest place possible for lunch. On those 20-minute outings I found myself appreciating Downtown Fremont from a perspective I never had before. Just across the street from the hospital were so many places to choose from to get a quick bite to go. Downtown Fremont wasn’t the only thing I was able to appreciate.
While speed-walking back to the hospital room I discovered a few beautifully bright murals and little peaceful corners that felt more like art installations. In those moments I slowed down my pace a bit and took a moment to feel the sun and enjoy the fresh air.
I’ve always considered myself someone who appreciates art, but in that moment I appreciated the people behind the art. The teams of people who put thought into creating bright, joyful art in a place where people may need it the most. And those who created spaces with benches and tables around little gardens, both in open and more private areas.
Tri-City Voice has covered those moments when hospitals debut their murals by local artists, sometimes students. Now being someone who gets to feel the care and thoughtfulness behind that in a moment of stress makes me appreciate those people even more.
