Einstein’s Dreams by Alan Lightman was mentioned in Introvert Power. I read it in a day, but it will haunt me for much longer than that. But… what do I mean by “a day” and “longer”? After reading this little book, it’s impossible to use time references without a heightened awareness that my concept of … Continue reading
From a young age, most of us are taught the value of social skills. We learn how to introduce ourselves, how to smile and be polite. We are told to be friendly and make friends. These are all useful abilities to develop. But how many of us are taught the value of solitude skills? How … Continue reading
I’ve been thinking about the concept of two, which I’ve been noticing a lot lately in our wanderings. It’s funny how many combinations make the point that two are better than one…
Jess posted a link to this article about a technology-free school where tech execs send their children. Very interesting — definitely worth a look. I’ve been thinking about showing my 5th grader how to use MS Publisher, but this article makes me think I might be rushing it. It also gave me a tip on … Continue reading
My 5th grader made a “Raptor Tree” using a twig from the back yard, the bird book, and her stores of Model Magic. The detail is pretty amazing: Here’s a picture to provide a sense of scale.
Where there is too much input, the introvert misses his mind, his subjectivity, his freedom, his very potential… He can’t wait to be free — to get out and away from the noise, the talk, the interference with his inner process. (Laurie Helgoe) I dislike altar calls. There. I’ve said it. Frequently in our church, … Continue reading
The girls and I took a walk in the snow the other day. Now I have shots of this path, which my youngest calls the tree tunnel, in three of the four seasons. Spring: Fall: Winter: Lovely spot. I also saw more critters over the weekend — this muskrat, who couldn’t figure out what the … Continue reading
How do I characterize George MacDonald’s sermons? I’ve been thinking about this question off and on for several days. I’ve been reading his Unspoken Sermons for a couple of years now, a little at a time, because it’s inconceivable to take them in more than the smallest bites. There is a prophetic depth and unity … Continue reading
This week, I made it about halfway through Allan Bloom’s Closing of the American Mind before deciding to set it aside. My response to the book was wildly uneven: I labored through the introduction, tore enthusiastically through the first hundred pages or so, and then ran aground in annoyance at the broad brush of sociological … Continue reading
Today promises to be rainy around here, but yesterday was sunny. We capitalized on it by taking two walks, each to a different preserve. The first was a marsh about 5 minutes from our house. It has a primeval feel, with moss-covered, fallen trees all around. It was cold, and the frost sparkled on everything, … Continue reading
