Actually, the apocalyptic literature session is over. In 90 minutes today, I gave an introduction to this genre and an overview of the book of Daniel. It went well, overall—considering the time limitations—though there will be a couple things to tweak next time. I do have to translate myself from my normal English (yes, a bit academic) to simplified English. Everyone has English as a second or third language, so I’m endeavoring to eschew obfuscation.
I think my main goal of demystifying some surreal apocalyptic imagery in order to focus on the main messages of the book came across with a couple exercises engaging the text. The student responses demonstrated careful reading. I’m also grateful for Ian Provan’s guideline of interpreting the unclear through what we know of the clear, not the other way around.
Speaking of clear… There was some clear ice today.
All the reflection is the glare of the lights off the ice. It had melted as the temperatures got up over freezing during the middle part of the day, but as the sun set (at 2:45 pm), the temperatures dropped.
The studded bicycle tires really are amazing. I would rather bike over this square than to walk over it! However, if ever I fall, I would rather fall when walking than fall from sitting up on a moving bicycle with various protrusions of metal cascading down around me! It seems that the chances of falling are reduced, but the risk of injury is increased. Which is worse?
My teaching is done for the year. I still have one chapel session on Friday, but I expect a small group. I do have plenty to do: an exam to write, a Swedish class paper to revise, a research paper to develop (6 Feb deadline), etc. I also have to pull everything together for the travels to USA. There’s lots of details: activating dormant auto insurance and American cell phone accounts, international travel insurance, bringing all the documentation and keys that I need for some tasks when at home in Bellevue, laundry and packing, etc. I’m finding myself becoming stressed about managing them all.
Time to go to sleep and methodically deal with them over the next couple days.
With blessings,
Beth
Just talk to them in English as you spoke to me rather than Mark. Ha! Also try to get together with Leslie while you are there. She has a lot to share! Have a blessed holiday! How will you survive without your ping pong?!