I am in my 35th year serving the people of Champaign County as a Patrol Deputy. Now, I have reached a point in my career where retirement is imminent.

Retired. I am not sure I like that word. It seems to have implications about transitioning from being a useful, contributing member of society to being a … spectator.

Not my bag, as we used to say.

So, I think I am going to call it “transitioning” instead. Over a lifetime, we experience many transitions. With each transition life becomes richer and more rewarding, and there is no reason why this transition should be any different.

Oh, yeah. About the painting.

The title of this painting is “Late Harvest”. It was inspired by my musings about transitioning out of my Law Enforcement gig into whatever comes next.

Being a city boy, I had never witnessed a Midwest-style harvest until I started my CCSO career. I “hit the streets” in October, working the midnight shift. Harvest was in full swing. I was shocked to see the farmers working late into the night (Whaaaat? They work in the dark?). I found out that they work as we all do, when they can, marching to a tune played by Mother Nature.

Learned a lot since then. Still learning.

The painting is a visual analogy of where I am in my Law Enforcement career. Wrapping things up. Tying up loose ends under a full moon.

Getting things ready for whatever comes next.

Image and text © 2014 James Golaszewski