Oregonians are so much more than just ‘hipsters’

What does it truly mean to be an Oregonian? The people in Oregon exemplify a plethora of uniqueness and rarity in their lifestyles. It is why hipsters and indie music thrive in the rain-drenched state of the Northwest.

Yet there is a commonality ingrained in our spirits that connects Oregonians across the state and hopefully I can describe this Oregonian spirit in only five words.

Pluviophile

Someone who loves and appreciates the rain – and deep within every Oregonian is the joy of a rainy day. The rain is something a common beauty that stimulates puddle jumping or even hiking for those who wish to brave the cold wetness. Some may even stash themselves away inside their homes to drink tea, read and listen to the patter of rain on the roof.

The rain is what feeds Oregon and is truly integral to some of the state’s most intrinsic features and why there is such a strong affection for it. If not for the rain our water would not be as sweet and the forests would not be as green. And when the sun sets on a rainy day the beauty of Oregon is further illuminated. Every Oregonian can appreciate that rain makes this state even more beautiful.

Wanderlust

The strong desire to wander, explore or travel the world. Though Oregon will always feel like home there is always the urge to expand our horizon and continuously learn by experiencing as much of the world as is possible. This also goes beyond exploring the world but also exploring thoughts and views of others.

There is always a need to glean from other’s ideas and find what resonates with you as a person. It is why the wanderlust spirit persists — to aid in this personal discovery that every Oregonian seems to find.

Vagabond

Someone who travels from place to place without a home or job. The difference I see in Oregonians is that we treat our entire state as a home. Even more than that, our home is with the people we live life with. When we wander and roam, as we explore and adventure, we can always come back to the people we love and we always live with the feeling that our home is wherever we place our heart.

A vagabond spirit is not one of despair but the thrill to live without bounds and always with a sense of self.

Dreamer

Someone who is lost in their dreams and ideals. Though Oregonians may be down to earth there is always an unsatisfied feeling letting us know that things can be better. We seek the awe-inspiring simplicity of life and nature. This desire to find a happier simpler way of living gives rise to close relationships where you can feel human around your friends.

Our dream to appreciate all of the little wonders of this world. This type of dreaming is not just for the betterment of ourselves but of our friends and families as well.

Vivacious

Lively in temper, conduct, or spirit. An Oregonian will live life to its fullest – live in the present and enjoy every moment of life. We keep coming to chase our dreams and wander the world. Like every runner in Oregon we are tenacious and gritty to a fault. Steve Prefontaine, the best runner Oregon has ever known, exemplifies the vivacity of Oregonians. We live by his words: “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift.”

He holds a special place because he urges us to never give or waiver in the face of adversity. Oregonians will continue to chase ideals with all their will and with  the support of everyone around them.

The Oregon dream is best exemplified by the runners who give their all in races but also value their teammates

Oregonians are more than just hipsters. We explore, inspire and enjoy the best things life has to offer and that’s what makes Oregon the best place to be from.