Saturday, November 05, 2005
Friday, November 04, 2005
The Silver Chair
I love this book, I'm left with so much to think about. The journey that Jill and Eustace take reminds me somewhat of the Pilgrim's Progress. It's a story about life, about failure, grace and redemption.
They're given instructions for their quest, which they more or less fail to carry out correctly, but Aslan hasn't abandoned them entirely and turns up to nudge them back on track. Interestingly, the only challenge they do not fail is the last, and most important. At this point, it is in their acknowledgement of their previous failures that they have the strength to carry out this last - and most dangerous - instruction: "They had muffed three already; they daren't muff the fourth." When it really counts, they remember the command and understand they must obey whatever the consquences.
One of my favourite moments of the whole series occurs at the beginning of this book, when Jill first meets Aslan. The following conversation is one of the longest conversations Aslan has in the books. It reminds me of the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4) - similarly one of the longest conversations Jesus has with a single individual in the Gospels. Like the Samaritan woman, Jill is after some water. And Aslan is in the way.
He offers her a drink from the stream: "If you're thirsty, you may drink."
Jill is not convinced, too fearful to drink while a lion watches.
"Will you promise not to - do anything to me, if I do come?" she asks him.
"I make no promise" says the Lion.
Jill asks him if he eats girls and his reply is not terribly comforting:
"I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and emperors, cities and realms"
She does not dare drink.
"Then you will die of thirst," says the Lion
"...I suppose I must look for another stream then," she tells him.
"There is no other stream."
I love this dialogue. The strength of the Lion, unchanging and dangerous, giving her the facts, refusing to budge or to be less than he is. There's an unmoveable sense about him, despite Jill's fears, asking him to step out of the way. And of course she does drink from the stream in the end.
There's also a nice bit towards the end, when Puddleglum stamps on the enchanted fire.
"the pain itself made Puddleglum's head for a moment perfectly clear and he knew exactly what he really thought. There is nothing like a good shock of pain for dissolving certain kinds of magic." The enchantment the witch was weaving was one of forgetfulness, forgetting the reality they had known of sky and sun and Aslan. Pain does indeed have the power to jolt us out of a daze.
Puddleglum goes on to explain to the witch that even if this remembered reality were a dream.."Suppose we have only dreamed, or made up, all those things - trees and grass and sun and moon and stars and Aslan himself"...then he prefers the dream to the 'reality' of the sunless lands below.
"We're just babies making up a game if you're right. But four babies playing a game can make a play-world which licks your real world hollow."
And his best line yet, one that rings so true for me,
"I'm on Aslan's side even if there isn't any Aslan to lead it. I'm going to live as like a Narnian as I can even if there isn't any Narnia."
They're given instructions for their quest, which they more or less fail to carry out correctly, but Aslan hasn't abandoned them entirely and turns up to nudge them back on track. Interestingly, the only challenge they do not fail is the last, and most important. At this point, it is in their acknowledgement of their previous failures that they have the strength to carry out this last - and most dangerous - instruction: "They had muffed three already; they daren't muff the fourth." When it really counts, they remember the command and understand they must obey whatever the consquences.
One of my favourite moments of the whole series occurs at the beginning of this book, when Jill first meets Aslan. The following conversation is one of the longest conversations Aslan has in the books. It reminds me of the story of Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well (John 4) - similarly one of the longest conversations Jesus has with a single individual in the Gospels. Like the Samaritan woman, Jill is after some water. And Aslan is in the way.
He offers her a drink from the stream: "If you're thirsty, you may drink."
Jill is not convinced, too fearful to drink while a lion watches.
"Will you promise not to - do anything to me, if I do come?" she asks him.
"I make no promise" says the Lion.
Jill asks him if he eats girls and his reply is not terribly comforting:
"I have swallowed up girls and boys, women and men, kings and emperors, cities and realms"
She does not dare drink.
"Then you will die of thirst," says the Lion
"...I suppose I must look for another stream then," she tells him.
"There is no other stream."
I love this dialogue. The strength of the Lion, unchanging and dangerous, giving her the facts, refusing to budge or to be less than he is. There's an unmoveable sense about him, despite Jill's fears, asking him to step out of the way. And of course she does drink from the stream in the end.
There's also a nice bit towards the end, when Puddleglum stamps on the enchanted fire.
"the pain itself made Puddleglum's head for a moment perfectly clear and he knew exactly what he really thought. There is nothing like a good shock of pain for dissolving certain kinds of magic." The enchantment the witch was weaving was one of forgetfulness, forgetting the reality they had known of sky and sun and Aslan. Pain does indeed have the power to jolt us out of a daze.
Puddleglum goes on to explain to the witch that even if this remembered reality were a dream.."Suppose we have only dreamed, or made up, all those things - trees and grass and sun and moon and stars and Aslan himself"...then he prefers the dream to the 'reality' of the sunless lands below.
"We're just babies making up a game if you're right. But four babies playing a game can make a play-world which licks your real world hollow."
And his best line yet, one that rings so true for me,
"I'm on Aslan's side even if there isn't any Aslan to lead it. I'm going to live as like a Narnian as I can even if there isn't any Narnia."
Wednesday, November 02, 2005
Voyages
I enjoyed The Voyage of the Dawn Treader and all the different adventures they have on their way to the edge of the world, but I have to admit it's not been one of my favourites so far. I have the feeling though, that perhaps there are further depths to some elements of this story than occured to me on this reading. Do you know the feeling that there might be more beneath that you're not seeing...?
I enjoyed the island of the Dufflepuds and the wizard Coriakin. As he says, they are a stupid people but he is rather fond of them, and "impatient, waiting for the day when they can be governed by wisdom instead of this rough magic."
"All in good time," Aslan says, explaining that he will not show himself to them yet because he would frighten them out of their senses!
I love the last section of the book, when they reach the end of the world. The imagery is so beautiful and unexpected. I love the sea of lilies and the water that sustains them, then the way the Sun gets bigger and brighter until they can see the mountains of Aslan's country behind. Reepicheep's final voyage into the unknown is one of my favourite character moments in the books - his desire for a last great adventure knows no doubts or fear.."he was quivering with happiness".
And then they're invited to a breakfast of fish with the Lamb.. who of course turns out to be Aslan. I love the way this echoes the risen Jesus inviting his disciples to breakfast on the shores of the Sea of Galilee (John 21). Lewis excels in picturing these moments in such a way that it enriches my understanding and appreciation of the original story without adding anything extra to it. Here, the children having breakfast with the pure white Lamb makes my image of Jesus by the lake stand out so much clearer!
Lucy asks Aslan whether he will tell them how to reach his country and he answers in his usual style: "I shall be telling you all the time...it lies across a river. But do not fear that, for I am the great Bridge Builder." What a great description!
I enjoyed the island of the Dufflepuds and the wizard Coriakin. As he says, they are a stupid people but he is rather fond of them, and "impatient, waiting for the day when they can be governed by wisdom instead of this rough magic."
"All in good time," Aslan says, explaining that he will not show himself to them yet because he would frighten them out of their senses!
I love the last section of the book, when they reach the end of the world. The imagery is so beautiful and unexpected. I love the sea of lilies and the water that sustains them, then the way the Sun gets bigger and brighter until they can see the mountains of Aslan's country behind. Reepicheep's final voyage into the unknown is one of my favourite character moments in the books - his desire for a last great adventure knows no doubts or fear.."he was quivering with happiness".
And then they're invited to a breakfast of fish with the Lamb.. who of course turns out to be Aslan. I love the way this echoes the risen Jesus inviting his disciples to breakfast on the shores of the Sea of Galilee (John 21). Lewis excels in picturing these moments in such a way that it enriches my understanding and appreciation of the original story without adding anything extra to it. Here, the children having breakfast with the pure white Lamb makes my image of Jesus by the lake stand out so much clearer!
Lucy asks Aslan whether he will tell them how to reach his country and he answers in his usual style: "I shall be telling you all the time...it lies across a river. But do not fear that, for I am the great Bridge Builder." What a great description!
Prince Caspian
This book didn't have much of an impact on me and I find I don't have much to say.
As ever, I find myself waiting for Aslan to turn up..and indeed he does, but in a slightly mysterious fashion! I like the way Edmund sticks up for Lucy this time, despite pressure from the others.
There's also the slightly bizarre section after they meet Aslan and the girls join him for a 'Romp'. Bacchus and Silenus turn up and it's all pretty crazy, (and pagan!). As Susan says, "I wouldn't have felt safe with Bacchus and all his wild girls if we'd met them without Aslan."
One of the most interesting sections of the book is when Nikabrik the dwarf, becoming impatient with the lack of action and with waiting around for the children to come (or not) decides to take matters into his own hands.
"Either Aslan is dead or he is not on our side...anyway, he was in Narnia only once that I heard of, and he didn't stay long. You may drop Aslan out of the reckoning. I was thinking of someone else."
He argues that Aslan didn't stay very long ("he just fades out of the story") and the Kings and Queens he established didn't last, but the Witch "ruled for a hundred years...there's power if you like. There's something practical!"
Caspian points out that she was a worse tyrant than Miraz but Nikabrik is not to be dissuaded, arguing that she got on ok with the dwarfs. Then he makes his most foolish statement yet: "We're not afraid of the Witch."
To the reader his naiveté, (in thinking he can control the Witch) is obvious, but how often do we play games with the enemy, or dabble in sin, thinking we can keep the reins and stay in control? At this point I hear Pete M. adding 'Do not underestimate the power of the Dark Side'!
As ever, I find myself waiting for Aslan to turn up..and indeed he does, but in a slightly mysterious fashion! I like the way Edmund sticks up for Lucy this time, despite pressure from the others.
There's also the slightly bizarre section after they meet Aslan and the girls join him for a 'Romp'. Bacchus and Silenus turn up and it's all pretty crazy, (and pagan!). As Susan says, "I wouldn't have felt safe with Bacchus and all his wild girls if we'd met them without Aslan."
One of the most interesting sections of the book is when Nikabrik the dwarf, becoming impatient with the lack of action and with waiting around for the children to come (or not) decides to take matters into his own hands.
"Either Aslan is dead or he is not on our side...anyway, he was in Narnia only once that I heard of, and he didn't stay long. You may drop Aslan out of the reckoning. I was thinking of someone else."
He argues that Aslan didn't stay very long ("he just fades out of the story") and the Kings and Queens he established didn't last, but the Witch "ruled for a hundred years...there's power if you like. There's something practical!"
Caspian points out that she was a worse tyrant than Miraz but Nikabrik is not to be dissuaded, arguing that she got on ok with the dwarfs. Then he makes his most foolish statement yet: "We're not afraid of the Witch."
To the reader his naiveté, (in thinking he can control the Witch) is obvious, but how often do we play games with the enemy, or dabble in sin, thinking we can keep the reins and stay in control? At this point I hear Pete M. adding 'Do not underestimate the power of the Dark Side'!
Monday, October 31, 2005
You make me feel like a ...
Gender is such an interesting thing. I've never felt confined by my gender, although I realise that this may be an unusual experience. Any limits on the possibilities open to me have always seemed those of skill or competency, and not because I am female. I am thankful indeed to have been born into a family environment and been part of a wider network (school, church, friends) that has encouraged and enabled me to follow my own path, without worrying about society's expectations of me as a woman.
Actually I've always been glad to be a woman, and at times even glad to play the 'helpless female' when it worked to my advantage. I've always (and perhaps cynically) seen social expectations as something to take advantage of when working in my favour, and subverted or ignored when not!
I love the freedom in being a woman, and implicit in that, the freedom not to be a man. While I want men and women to enjoy equality of opportunity and expression beyond gender lines, I also want to celebrate the differences between us. While I recognise in myself some traditionally masculine qualities (or 'Martian characteristics', as some have heard!), I don't ever want to feel that the only way I can express those is to be less female. In fact, I long to use all the talents God has placed in me while more fully the woman He has made me. O to be the woman described in Proverbs 31!
I've always felt that to be a woman of God is to celebrate everything that God has put in me that is female. And for me personally, much of that is tied up in the idea of what it means to be in partnership with a man. (Though i'm not saying that a woman is incomplete without a man!) But I guess, for me, some of what I want to enjoy as a woman is to be pursued and loved by a man, to enjoy beauty and 'femininity', cherished and protected in marriage, submitted to my husband, motherhood... Like many girls I know I identified on one level with the picture John Eldridge paints in 'Wild at Heart' - the secret desire to be rescued by a knight on a white charger and carried off into the sunset.. (although - for any secret admirers out there - I will accept a more liberal interpretation! though the horse is essential)
I've always been a independent sort of person, as I'm sure those of you who know me would agree! So some of this has come as a surprise to friends in the past. And I realise that some of this is controversial - not every girl friend would agree with those things I have picked out.
I remember an occasion a few years back which sticks in my memory as a moment of epiphany about myself. I was at a party with some friends, but ended up having to leave early and walk home. Some friends (guys) offered to walk me and I waved them off with a 'oh no, don't worry, I'll be ok', but as soon as I'd left realised that I would have loved someone to have insisted. They were valuing my independence and right to make my own decisions, but somewhere in me was the social and cultural expectation that a guy should walk a girl home after dark, should insist on doing so despite protestations to the contrary! So although I was perfectly capable of getting home and wasn't worried about walking alone in Durham or anything like that, I guess I did want those social roles to still work in my favour!
Actually I've always been glad to be a woman, and at times even glad to play the 'helpless female' when it worked to my advantage. I've always (and perhaps cynically) seen social expectations as something to take advantage of when working in my favour, and subverted or ignored when not!
I love the freedom in being a woman, and implicit in that, the freedom not to be a man. While I want men and women to enjoy equality of opportunity and expression beyond gender lines, I also want to celebrate the differences between us. While I recognise in myself some traditionally masculine qualities (or 'Martian characteristics', as some have heard!), I don't ever want to feel that the only way I can express those is to be less female. In fact, I long to use all the talents God has placed in me while more fully the woman He has made me. O to be the woman described in Proverbs 31!
I've always felt that to be a woman of God is to celebrate everything that God has put in me that is female. And for me personally, much of that is tied up in the idea of what it means to be in partnership with a man. (Though i'm not saying that a woman is incomplete without a man!) But I guess, for me, some of what I want to enjoy as a woman is to be pursued and loved by a man, to enjoy beauty and 'femininity', cherished and protected in marriage, submitted to my husband, motherhood... Like many girls I know I identified on one level with the picture John Eldridge paints in 'Wild at Heart' - the secret desire to be rescued by a knight on a white charger and carried off into the sunset.. (although - for any secret admirers out there - I will accept a more liberal interpretation! though the horse is essential)
I've always been a independent sort of person, as I'm sure those of you who know me would agree! So some of this has come as a surprise to friends in the past. And I realise that some of this is controversial - not every girl friend would agree with those things I have picked out.
I remember an occasion a few years back which sticks in my memory as a moment of epiphany about myself. I was at a party with some friends, but ended up having to leave early and walk home. Some friends (guys) offered to walk me and I waved them off with a 'oh no, don't worry, I'll be ok', but as soon as I'd left realised that I would have loved someone to have insisted. They were valuing my independence and right to make my own decisions, but somewhere in me was the social and cultural expectation that a guy should walk a girl home after dark, should insist on doing so despite protestations to the contrary! So although I was perfectly capable of getting home and wasn't worried about walking alone in Durham or anything like that, I guess I did want those social roles to still work in my favour!
Friday, October 28, 2005
Food for maths geeks
This strange cauliflower turned up in a bag of organic vegetables. We were quite stunned but I have since discovered that it is not of extra-terrestrial origin but in fact a 'Broccoli Romanesco'. This veg must be the best example of a natural fractal that I have ever seen! My picture's not great but this website has some excellent pictures and explanation.
Evening in Durham
I was in my car, waiting in traffic, and admiring the evening sky over the city. The windows in these houses reflected even deeper shades of gold and rose than I had seen in the sky itself.
Wednesday, October 26, 2005
From the Plane
This is a picture I took from the plane coming back from Germany. It's the UK coast, somewhere south of Middlesbrough. Anyone recognise it? I want to know where it is!
Isn't it amazing to actually see the curve of the Earth like this?
Isn't it amazing to actually see the curve of the Earth like this?
The Horse and His Boy
This is one of my favourite of the Narnia books - the tale of two children and two talking horses making their way to Narnia. In terms of stories, this adventure - and the characters in it - has always appealed to me, providing some real food for thought in terms of life journeys and 'destiny'. And Aslan's appearance at the end provides some of my favourite moments of 'revelation' in the books:
Shasta meets Aslan and learns that all the lions (and a cat) he has encountered on his travels were in fact just one lion. Shasta asks him "Who are you?" and the lion replies, three times, "Myself".
Bree's comments about how Aslan couldn't possibly be a real lion, but maybe just 'as strong as a lion' or 'as fierce as a lion'.. "quite absurd to suppose he is a real lion. Indeed it would be disrespectful. If he was a lion he'd have to be a Beast just like the rest of us." and then Aslan tickles him with a whisker!
The mare, Hwin, on meeting Aslan:
"..you're so beautiful. You may eat me if you like. I'd rather be eaten by you than fed by anyone else."
Shasta meets Aslan and learns that all the lions (and a cat) he has encountered on his travels were in fact just one lion. Shasta asks him "Who are you?" and the lion replies, three times, "Myself".
Bree's comments about how Aslan couldn't possibly be a real lion, but maybe just 'as strong as a lion' or 'as fierce as a lion'.. "quite absurd to suppose he is a real lion. Indeed it would be disrespectful. If he was a lion he'd have to be a Beast just like the rest of us." and then Aslan tickles him with a whisker!
The mare, Hwin, on meeting Aslan:
"..you're so beautiful. You may eat me if you like. I'd rather be eaten by you than fed by anyone else."
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe
Well, what to say about a classic?!
It's difficult enough to narrow down my favourite bits..
- the Professor's surprising reaction when Peter and Susan are worried about Lucy: "a charge of lying against someone whom you have always found truthful is a very serious thing; a very serious thing indeed."
- the Beavers explain that Aslan is returning
"...don't you know? He's the King. He's the Lord of the whole wood.."
(it made me think of "Do you not know? Have you not heard that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth?" Isaiah 40:28)
- the snow melts for Spring has come! "Your winter has been destroyed, I tell you! This is Aslan's doing." says the Witch's dwarf. ('Even the demons know who I am.' The Witch has no power beyond what is allowed her)
- Mr Beaver objects to the Witch calling herself 'Queen of Narnia' but Aslan calms him: "Peace, Beaver..All names will soon be restored to their proper owners. In the meantime we will not dispute about them."
(I love how much this comment reveals Aslan's certainty, for lack of a better word. He knows what the proper order of things is and sees no need to debate it. The Witch has been queen, but only allowed to be so for a time, now nearing its end)
- the Witch's glee at her victory: "And now, who has won? Fool, did you think that by all this you would save the human traitor? ...Understand that you have given me Narnia forever, you have lost your own life and you have not saved his." (How Satan must have gloated at the cross and how gloriously wrong!)
- And, of course, the breaking of the Stone Table and the reappearance of Aslan, alive once more! This is such a wonderful scene, and I love the way it's the girls who witness it as the women do in the Gospels. Aslan tells them of a "magic deeper still" and follows it with a "romp such as no one has ever had except in Narnia". And then he Roars, bending the trees before him like grass in the wind. He's back - and more himself than ever!
It's difficult enough to narrow down my favourite bits..
- the Professor's surprising reaction when Peter and Susan are worried about Lucy: "a charge of lying against someone whom you have always found truthful is a very serious thing; a very serious thing indeed."
- the Beavers explain that Aslan is returning
"...don't you know? He's the King. He's the Lord of the whole wood.."
(it made me think of "Do you not know? Have you not heard that the LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth?" Isaiah 40:28)
- the snow melts for Spring has come! "Your winter has been destroyed, I tell you! This is Aslan's doing." says the Witch's dwarf. ('Even the demons know who I am.' The Witch has no power beyond what is allowed her)
- Mr Beaver objects to the Witch calling herself 'Queen of Narnia' but Aslan calms him: "Peace, Beaver..All names will soon be restored to their proper owners. In the meantime we will not dispute about them."
(I love how much this comment reveals Aslan's certainty, for lack of a better word. He knows what the proper order of things is and sees no need to debate it. The Witch has been queen, but only allowed to be so for a time, now nearing its end)
- the Witch's glee at her victory: "And now, who has won? Fool, did you think that by all this you would save the human traitor? ...Understand that you have given me Narnia forever, you have lost your own life and you have not saved his." (How Satan must have gloated at the cross and how gloriously wrong!)
- And, of course, the breaking of the Stone Table and the reappearance of Aslan, alive once more! This is such a wonderful scene, and I love the way it's the girls who witness it as the women do in the Gospels. Aslan tells them of a "magic deeper still" and follows it with a "romp such as no one has ever had except in Narnia". And then he Roars, bending the trees before him like grass in the wind. He's back - and more himself than ever!
"Do you love your wife?"
Yesterday evening Chris Juby played a song by 'Brother Don' (otherwise known as Don Francisco) which surprised me in its spot-on-ness. I found this website, where you can download an MP3 of 'The Steeple Song' - recommended!
"..the thing I need I need to ask you is have done the things I said..
Do you love your wife? "
"..the thing I need I need to ask you is have done the things I said..
Do you love your wife? "
Pictures from Munich
Granma - and other Millers - follow this link to see some pictures from Lisa and Franz's wedding in Munich. Sorry they've been so delayed!
Friday, October 21, 2005
Half term - yay!
...All I wanted to say really!
It feels so good to be finally here.. feels like I've been waiting for this from September! It's going to be a busy few days but I'm looking forward to Monday (which you won't normally hear me say...)
It feels so good to be finally here.. feels like I've been waiting for this from September! It's going to be a busy few days but I'm looking forward to Monday (which you won't normally hear me say...)
Thursday, October 20, 2005
The magic begins
I've just finished reading The Magician's Nephew, part of my plan to read all the Narnia books again over half term. I really enjoyed my escape to that magical world and encountering once more the beauty, strength and grace of the Lion..formidable yet impossible to resist. Aslan is so wonderfully real for me in reflecting the character and majesty of Jesus. As an allegory he works on so many levels and I find so many truths in the reflection..definitely someone I recognise! (is that heretical?!) I find there's something in the character of Aslan that helps me to understand (and worship) something more in the person of Jesus every time that I read it, perhaps the slightly unusual perspective helps...?
Anyway, here's a few of my favourite moments:
- the Lion's song
- Uncle Andrew has tried so hard not to hear that he stops being able to..
- Aslan says he knows the Cabby and asks if he recognises him
- Aslan explains why the fruit the witch took from the Tree will give her endless days but neither real Life nor joy. But the apple he gives Diggory as a gift brings life and healing to his mother.
Enjoyable and lots to consider but it's not the best of the books and I'm looking forward to striking on further... onwards and upwards!
Anyway, here's a few of my favourite moments:
- the Lion's song
- Uncle Andrew has tried so hard not to hear that he stops being able to..
- Aslan says he knows the Cabby and asks if he recognises him
- Aslan explains why the fruit the witch took from the Tree will give her endless days but neither real Life nor joy. But the apple he gives Diggory as a gift brings life and healing to his mother.
Enjoyable and lots to consider but it's not the best of the books and I'm looking forward to striking on further... onwards and upwards!
Monday, October 17, 2005
Pullman talks nonsense on Narnia
Like Hilary, I have been reading the debate on the BBC website regarding Philip Pullman's comments on the forthcoming Narnia films.
I've never taken part in one of these 'Have Your Say' moderated debates before and thought i'd have a go at adding my views. I wonder if they'll be 'printed'?
Just in case they're not, I thought i'd put them here instead..:-)
"It's fascinating to hear such a range of views on a subject I didn't realise was so in question. Narnia is a fictional world, and the book tells a fictional story, but like all good stories it contains both the familar and unfamilar. In his books CS Lewis retells the 'big story' and in this sense it's neither a (teaching) parable or a evangelistic tool, but reflects reality as he saw it. Thus the clear parallels between his tale and the Christian story of love and sacrifice and resurrection. Pullman's curious comments about the lack of love in the books remain a mystery...as someone previously commented, Aslan's death reveals a story centred on love: 'What greater love than this, that a man should lay down His life for His friend.'"
I've never taken part in one of these 'Have Your Say' moderated debates before and thought i'd have a go at adding my views. I wonder if they'll be 'printed'?
Just in case they're not, I thought i'd put them here instead..:-)
"It's fascinating to hear such a range of views on a subject I didn't realise was so in question. Narnia is a fictional world, and the book tells a fictional story, but like all good stories it contains both the familar and unfamilar. In his books CS Lewis retells the 'big story' and in this sense it's neither a (teaching) parable or a evangelistic tool, but reflects reality as he saw it. Thus the clear parallels between his tale and the Christian story of love and sacrifice and resurrection. Pullman's curious comments about the lack of love in the books remain a mystery...as someone previously commented, Aslan's death reveals a story centred on love: 'What greater love than this, that a man should lay down His life for His friend.'"
A way with words..
Something caught my attention on a recent reading of Acts 23.
Paul is normally really plain in expressing the Gospel and what he believes, but in this trial before the Sanhedrin he deliberately and quite cleverly subverts the questions and starts an argument between the Pharisees and Sadducees:
"I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead. When he said this, a dispute broke out between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided. [And Luke explains](the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, and that there are neither angels nor spirits, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all.)" 23 v.6-7
It seems unusual for him to divert attention away in this way and perhaps even slightly deceptive - that's not really what they considered the trial was about surely? (although of course a fairly essential component) Perhaps he was just trying to highlight the lack of evidence or case against him..?
He later refers to this in his trial before Felix (chapter 24) when he admits that he caused a disturbance with his comments about resurrection before the Sanhedrin - and that was his only crime.
Thoughts?
Paul is normally really plain in expressing the Gospel and what he believes, but in this trial before the Sanhedrin he deliberately and quite cleverly subverts the questions and starts an argument between the Pharisees and Sadducees:
"I stand on trial because of my hope in the resurrection of the dead. When he said this, a dispute broke out between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided. [And Luke explains](the Sadducees say that there is no resurrection, and that there are neither angels nor spirits, but the Pharisees acknowledge them all.)" 23 v.6-7
It seems unusual for him to divert attention away in this way and perhaps even slightly deceptive - that's not really what they considered the trial was about surely? (although of course a fairly essential component) Perhaps he was just trying to highlight the lack of evidence or case against him..?
He later refers to this in his trial before Felix (chapter 24) when he admits that he caused a disturbance with his comments about resurrection before the Sanhedrin - and that was his only crime.
Thoughts?
Saturday, October 15, 2005
Rebuilding the House
I had one or two requests for a copy of this exerpt from Mere Christianity by CS Lewis:
"I find I must borrow yet another parable from George MacDonald. Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on: you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently he starts knocking the house about in a way that hurt abominably and does not seem to make sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of-throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. He intends to come and live in it Himself.
"The command Be ye perfect is not idealistic gas. Nor is it a command to do the impossible. He is going to make us into creatures that can obey that command. He said (in the Bible) that we were 'gods' and He is going to make good His words. If we let Him - for we can prevent Him, if we choose - He will make the feeblest and filthiest of us into a god or goddess, a dazzling, radiant, immortal creature, pulsating all through with such energy and joy and wisdom and love as we cannot now imagine, a bright stainless mirror which reflects back to God perfectly (though, of course, on a smaller scale) His own boundless power and delight and goodness. The process will be long and in parts very painful; but that is what we are in for. Nothing less. He meant what He said."
"I find I must borrow yet another parable from George MacDonald. Imagine yourself as a living house. God comes in to rebuild that house. At first, perhaps, you can understand what He is doing. He is getting the drains right and stopping the leaks in the roof and so on: you knew that those jobs needed doing and so you are not surprised. But presently he starts knocking the house about in a way that hurt abominably and does not seem to make sense. What on earth is He up to? The explanation is that He is building quite a different house from the one you thought of-throwing out a new wing here, putting on an extra floor there, running up towers, making courtyards. You thought you were going to be made into a decent little cottage: but He is building a palace. He intends to come and live in it Himself.
"The command Be ye perfect is not idealistic gas. Nor is it a command to do the impossible. He is going to make us into creatures that can obey that command. He said (in the Bible) that we were 'gods' and He is going to make good His words. If we let Him - for we can prevent Him, if we choose - He will make the feeblest and filthiest of us into a god or goddess, a dazzling, radiant, immortal creature, pulsating all through with such energy and joy and wisdom and love as we cannot now imagine, a bright stainless mirror which reflects back to God perfectly (though, of course, on a smaller scale) His own boundless power and delight and goodness. The process will be long and in parts very painful; but that is what we are in for. Nothing less. He meant what He said."
i want you back for gooooood
Well, it's been a while but I am still alive and online - honest!
Things have been super busy here, both in and outside school, and I haven't got much creative energy! I will try to make a bigger effort though...
I've been enjoying throwing life and energy into church once again. It's been a while since I've been able to do that the way I like to. I'm being kept busy on Sundays, mostly with the evening service, and filling up my weekday evenings with other fun stuff. But trying to stay on top of everything this year will be slightly crazy!
Things have been super busy here, both in and outside school, and I haven't got much creative energy! I will try to make a bigger effort though...
I've been enjoying throwing life and energy into church once again. It's been a while since I've been able to do that the way I like to. I'm being kept busy on Sundays, mostly with the evening service, and filling up my weekday evenings with other fun stuff. But trying to stay on top of everything this year will be slightly crazy!
Thursday, September 22, 2005
music meltdown
I was reflecting this evening on the effect music has on me. I love music of all kinds, and I find it hard to pin down any particular type of music as a favourite.
I've discovered that for me, music serves as a kind of emotional and mental warm up, like stretching for physical exercise. Some of that warm up comes from the lyrics of a song, rehearsing situations and emotions, but not all. The music itself, the chords, the melody, the rhythm, has an effect beyond the lyrical content.
I started thinking about this because of the way that music makes me want to pray. I play cds in the car and for a few weeks I've been playing a worship cd which has been really good for me. But recently I've started playing some other, more secular, cds and I've noticed that as soon as the music comes on I immediately relax, my mood improves and I want to pray. Have I just been conditioned?
It's as if it has an almost physical effect on me, a washing over. I can feel it happening! My brain runs more smoothly, my emotions come closer to the surface, I feel happier. I was listening to Rhythm of the Saints on the way home today and the rhythm woke me right up, made me smile..tapping on the steering wheel and bopping away!
All kinds of music have this effect. I've been listening to old cheese, Jars of Clay, Paul Simon...
When i used to go to Planet of Sound weekly, a few years back now, I had some of my best prayer times of the week on the trance floor - strange I know! Dancing has a similar effect on me. Actually, someone lent me an old trance cd recently and I've found it excellent for working to.
Does anyone else have this happen to them?
I've discovered that for me, music serves as a kind of emotional and mental warm up, like stretching for physical exercise. Some of that warm up comes from the lyrics of a song, rehearsing situations and emotions, but not all. The music itself, the chords, the melody, the rhythm, has an effect beyond the lyrical content.
I started thinking about this because of the way that music makes me want to pray. I play cds in the car and for a few weeks I've been playing a worship cd which has been really good for me. But recently I've started playing some other, more secular, cds and I've noticed that as soon as the music comes on I immediately relax, my mood improves and I want to pray. Have I just been conditioned?
It's as if it has an almost physical effect on me, a washing over. I can feel it happening! My brain runs more smoothly, my emotions come closer to the surface, I feel happier. I was listening to Rhythm of the Saints on the way home today and the rhythm woke me right up, made me smile..tapping on the steering wheel and bopping away!
All kinds of music have this effect. I've been listening to old cheese, Jars of Clay, Paul Simon...
When i used to go to Planet of Sound weekly, a few years back now, I had some of my best prayer times of the week on the trance floor - strange I know! Dancing has a similar effect on me. Actually, someone lent me an old trance cd recently and I've found it excellent for working to.
Does anyone else have this happen to them?
Monday, September 19, 2005
East of Eden
I've just finished reading East of Eden by John Steinbeck, a present from Tom. I wasn't sure what to expect, as at least two people said to me that it was the best book they'd read.
Even now, it's hard to work out exactly what I feel about it. It was surprisingly readable and the characters unexpected. The world and characters he draws are both familiar and at the same time unfamiliar as only real people can be.
The novel revolves around and reflects upon the events in Genesis 4 - the story of Cain and Abel. There are two sets of brothers in this story and part of the anticipation of the novel lies in the extent to which their lives reflect their Genesis counterparts. I won't spoil the story for those who haven't read it, but it doesn't spoil much to say that the novel is about, for me at least, the importance of choice - tied up in the word timshel, 'thou mayest'. Among its themes are the good and evil in every person, revenge and redemption, jealousy and love, guilt and forgiveness. I loved the last section of the book, and especially the interactions between the characters in the Trask household, Lee and Cal particularly. The pain of rejection and its consequences in the different characters provides the most memorable scenes and the novel hinges on the helpless inevitability-or not- of the result.
Towards the end the novel I was uncomfortable with its appearing to condone 'evil' thoughts and actions in a person, even preferring them to morality and innocence. But I have come to realise that the novel is ultimately not about good or evil people, but about the reality of sin in everyone and the choice that we have - whether to fan it into flames or to master it. The 'innocent' and 'evil' characters in this story serve mainly as foils to their more complicated counterparts, giving context to their actions.
Even now, it's hard to work out exactly what I feel about it. It was surprisingly readable and the characters unexpected. The world and characters he draws are both familiar and at the same time unfamiliar as only real people can be.
The novel revolves around and reflects upon the events in Genesis 4 - the story of Cain and Abel. There are two sets of brothers in this story and part of the anticipation of the novel lies in the extent to which their lives reflect their Genesis counterparts. I won't spoil the story for those who haven't read it, but it doesn't spoil much to say that the novel is about, for me at least, the importance of choice - tied up in the word timshel, 'thou mayest'. Among its themes are the good and evil in every person, revenge and redemption, jealousy and love, guilt and forgiveness. I loved the last section of the book, and especially the interactions between the characters in the Trask household, Lee and Cal particularly. The pain of rejection and its consequences in the different characters provides the most memorable scenes and the novel hinges on the helpless inevitability-or not- of the result.
Towards the end the novel I was uncomfortable with its appearing to condone 'evil' thoughts and actions in a person, even preferring them to morality and innocence. But I have come to realise that the novel is ultimately not about good or evil people, but about the reality of sin in everyone and the choice that we have - whether to fan it into flames or to master it. The 'innocent' and 'evil' characters in this story serve mainly as foils to their more complicated counterparts, giving context to their actions.
Munchen Hochzeit
I just got back today from Germany and a fab weekend at my cousin Lisa's wedding. I will recount my adventures and observations in the style of my friend Mr Shervington, although i fear it will not be quite as diverting...
Friday I was in a state of nervous excitement all day, you'd think I'd never been on a plane before! My first experience of flying away for the weekend at any rate, and my first trip into Europe (that is, further than Brussels!) Hard to believe isn't it? After some confusion about flight times, I boarded at Durham Teeside (which is the smallest funniest airport ever) and took off to Amsterdam. With all the flights this weekend I was reflecting on how much I love takeoff. I find it so exhilarating, especially in the small 'cityhopper' planes. The acceleration down the runway and the anticipation just before you lift into the sky, being pushed back into your seat as it rises - what a rush! Don't mind me...
I finally arrived in Munich at 10pm, after too long spent admiring the workings of Amsterdam airport. My first view of Germany..and that was only the autobahn and in the dark. Sadly I was not to see much more, and of Munich pretty much nothing! We stayed in a rural hotel, which was perhaps the oddest place I have ever stayed. We had an ensuite with a bath, a sink and a large fridge, but no toilet. The room had two lamps and a TV, none of which worked! And the curtains when pulled closed left a gap of 15cm or more. Added to this, despite being pretty large, the hotel appeared to be completely empty apart from those of us there for the wedding!
The wedding was held in a small church in a nearby town. It was mostly in English but there were a few moments of confusion as someone explained something in German and we looked around for someone to translate. Despite the different country and language I was struck by how similar it all was. And not just that the church service was similar. It was more the realisation that wherever we go in the world there is something that’s ‘at home and among family’ when we’re worshipping with other Christians. I was so glad to be there and to celebrate the wedding. Bride and groom were radiant and excited…exactly as they should be! After much setting up and preparation the evening’s festivities began. A feast of pork belly and ribs with dumplings and gravy, potato salad, bread and cheese – yummy! And entertainment to follow…not all of which was completely intelligible!
I was supposed to leave Munich at 10am on Sunday but it wasn’t to be. My flight was overbooked and I was bumped onto a flight leaving at 8pm in the evening, requiring an overnight stay in Amsterdam. I wandered around, read lots, spent some time with dad and Leo (who caught a later flight), and generally kicked my heels for 8 hours! I spent a delightful hour in conversation with a older German lady off to visit her sister in Felixstowe. Her English was limited so we exchanged language snippets about home and family until her check-in time. I eventually escaped Munich airport with generous compensation, meal voucher and hotel ticket. I spent the night in an unexciting Travelodge-style hotel and finally arrived home at lunch time today.
I very much enjoyed my small glimpse of Germany. Everyone I met was charming and helpful. Complete strangers would step in, smiling, to assist with things lost in translation. Airport and airline staff were friendlier and more helpful than I expected…and certainly more so than in Amsterdam or home in England. Despite not previously being a fan of the German language, I found it surprisingly fun to speak – or at least attempt to! All in all, I think I’m up for a return visit!
Friday I was in a state of nervous excitement all day, you'd think I'd never been on a plane before! My first experience of flying away for the weekend at any rate, and my first trip into Europe (that is, further than Brussels!) Hard to believe isn't it? After some confusion about flight times, I boarded at Durham Teeside (which is the smallest funniest airport ever) and took off to Amsterdam. With all the flights this weekend I was reflecting on how much I love takeoff. I find it so exhilarating, especially in the small 'cityhopper' planes. The acceleration down the runway and the anticipation just before you lift into the sky, being pushed back into your seat as it rises - what a rush! Don't mind me...
I finally arrived in Munich at 10pm, after too long spent admiring the workings of Amsterdam airport. My first view of Germany..and that was only the autobahn and in the dark. Sadly I was not to see much more, and of Munich pretty much nothing! We stayed in a rural hotel, which was perhaps the oddest place I have ever stayed. We had an ensuite with a bath, a sink and a large fridge, but no toilet. The room had two lamps and a TV, none of which worked! And the curtains when pulled closed left a gap of 15cm or more. Added to this, despite being pretty large, the hotel appeared to be completely empty apart from those of us there for the wedding!
The wedding was held in a small church in a nearby town. It was mostly in English but there were a few moments of confusion as someone explained something in German and we looked around for someone to translate. Despite the different country and language I was struck by how similar it all was. And not just that the church service was similar. It was more the realisation that wherever we go in the world there is something that’s ‘at home and among family’ when we’re worshipping with other Christians. I was so glad to be there and to celebrate the wedding. Bride and groom were radiant and excited…exactly as they should be! After much setting up and preparation the evening’s festivities began. A feast of pork belly and ribs with dumplings and gravy, potato salad, bread and cheese – yummy! And entertainment to follow…not all of which was completely intelligible!
I was supposed to leave Munich at 10am on Sunday but it wasn’t to be. My flight was overbooked and I was bumped onto a flight leaving at 8pm in the evening, requiring an overnight stay in Amsterdam. I wandered around, read lots, spent some time with dad and Leo (who caught a later flight), and generally kicked my heels for 8 hours! I spent a delightful hour in conversation with a older German lady off to visit her sister in Felixstowe. Her English was limited so we exchanged language snippets about home and family until her check-in time. I eventually escaped Munich airport with generous compensation, meal voucher and hotel ticket. I spent the night in an unexciting Travelodge-style hotel and finally arrived home at lunch time today.
I very much enjoyed my small glimpse of Germany. Everyone I met was charming and helpful. Complete strangers would step in, smiling, to assist with things lost in translation. Airport and airline staff were friendlier and more helpful than I expected…and certainly more so than in Amsterdam or home in England. Despite not previously being a fan of the German language, I found it surprisingly fun to speak – or at least attempt to! All in all, I think I’m up for a return visit!
Monday, September 12, 2005
Christians in Antioch
I was reading Acts 11 this morning and noticed for the first time Luke's statement that "the disciples were called Christians first at Antioch". The notes in my Bible point out that they were called Christians because, being a mixture of Jews (speaking Greek or Aramaic) and Gentiles, Christ was all they had in common - not race, culture or language.
I was inspired by two things:
- unity IS possible in Christ, across all cultural boundaries and in the most impossible situations
- diversity is a reality, homogeneity unnecessary. Sometimes Christ is ALL we have in common. We don't have to 'click' with everybody, nor mold them in our own image, but we are called to love everyone.
I was inspired by two things:
- unity IS possible in Christ, across all cultural boundaries and in the most impossible situations
- diversity is a reality, homogeneity unnecessary. Sometimes Christ is ALL we have in common. We don't have to 'click' with everybody, nor mold them in our own image, but we are called to love everyone.
Saturday, September 03, 2005
Jumbled joy
Here's a little something I put together today while work-avoiding.
It's made up of lines from the songs on my current worship cd-mix. I'll be impressed if anyone guesses all 14...
Lift up your eyes,
Early in the morning.
The harvest is here,
The kingdom is near!
Though there’s pain in the offering,
I will celebrate the light.
I’ve tasted and I’ve seen,
I know with all my heart.
No one else will do:
Heaven’s perfect Lamb,
I’ll lay it all down again,
It’s You I live for, everyday!
Bigger than the heavens and the highest of heights,
The universe declares your majesty.
You are far above,
Strong to deliver, mighty to save.
I’ll learn to stand upon Your word.
My heart will choose to say:
I’m gonna stand,
I’m gonna run,
I’ll follow after You.
To find You in the place Your glory dwells,
That’s the cry of my heart.
When I’m found in the desert place,
Help me know You are near.
I’m lost without you!
I’ll fear no evil for You are with me,
With wisdom, power and love.
Who’s your equal?
Your Spirit’s water to my soul,
Healing comes from your hands,
The fire of God,
Stirring up my passion.
My heart is satisfied within your presence,
the warmth of Your embrace.
Your glory will fill the earth,
Like water the sea.
Peeling back the darkness,
Rising up in me.
You’re all I ever needed,
My daily bread, the air I breathe.
It’s true and I believe it!
Our God turns the bitter into sweet,
Mercy and grace he gave us at the cross.
He will watch over your coming and your going
And calm the storm with His hand.
It's made up of lines from the songs on my current worship cd-mix. I'll be impressed if anyone guesses all 14...
Lift up your eyes,
Early in the morning.
The harvest is here,
The kingdom is near!
Though there’s pain in the offering,
I will celebrate the light.
I’ve tasted and I’ve seen,
I know with all my heart.
No one else will do:
Heaven’s perfect Lamb,
I’ll lay it all down again,
It’s You I live for, everyday!
Bigger than the heavens and the highest of heights,
The universe declares your majesty.
You are far above,
Strong to deliver, mighty to save.
I’ll learn to stand upon Your word.
My heart will choose to say:
I’m gonna stand,
I’m gonna run,
I’ll follow after You.
To find You in the place Your glory dwells,
That’s the cry of my heart.
When I’m found in the desert place,
Help me know You are near.
I’m lost without you!
I’ll fear no evil for You are with me,
With wisdom, power and love.
Who’s your equal?
Your Spirit’s water to my soul,
Healing comes from your hands,
The fire of God,
Stirring up my passion.
My heart is satisfied within your presence,
the warmth of Your embrace.
Your glory will fill the earth,
Like water the sea.
Peeling back the darkness,
Rising up in me.
You’re all I ever needed,
My daily bread, the air I breathe.
It’s true and I believe it!
Our God turns the bitter into sweet,
Mercy and grace he gave us at the cross.
He will watch over your coming and your going
And calm the storm with His hand.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Top 10 Canada Adventures
(not in order!)
- whale watching in a Zodiac. From Victoria Inner Harbour and along the south coast of Vancouver Island. The exhiliration of the boat trip alone made it worth it, but the orca were quite sublime. We found ourselves in the path of the pod as it headed west and one or two surfaced right next to the boat!
- White water rafting at Whistler. Breathless fun, made all the more exciting when mum went overboard!
- Valdes (wilderness island). Swimming, shooting, eating. An amazing cabin (and company!) And a fabulous, getting-lost adventure in the forest. Scrambling over logging 'remains' and tree-bridges through mazes of dead-fall and finding our way home again.. no trouble!
- Caving at Horne Lake. A $5 bargain. Unguided, dark, and surprisingly challenging. Scrambling over muddy rocks deep in the ground..wahey!
- Peak chair at Whistler. Civilised but fun! Steep near-vertical climb up the cliff, view of the glacier, snow at the top.
- Wading the Green River on horseback. Water up to the saddle and our knees pulled up, horses struggling against the current. Felt like we were in a Western disaster movie!
- Clambering over the rocks from Botanical Beach to Botany Bay. Juan de Fuca trail. Heavy damp fog made it all the more mysterious. Exploring the island at Botany Bay and trying not to fall in the sea.
- Steam-powered saw mill at Port Alberni. Could have watched all day! Amazing.
- Miller family reunion at Parksville. 32 people. Photos of everyone, Granma lifted in a chair.
- Mini golf. 3 times? 4? Brendan was addicted and dragged us kicking and screaming...
(I have a good number more pictures but unfortunately they're still in Canada..long story!)
- whale watching in a Zodiac. From Victoria Inner Harbour and along the south coast of Vancouver Island. The exhiliration of the boat trip alone made it worth it, but the orca were quite sublime. We found ourselves in the path of the pod as it headed west and one or two surfaced right next to the boat!- White water rafting at Whistler. Breathless fun, made all the more exciting when mum went overboard!
- Valdes (wilderness island). Swimming, shooting, eating. An amazing cabin (and company!) And a fabulous, getting-lost adventure in the forest. Scrambling over logging 'remains' and tree-bridges through mazes of dead-fall and finding our way home again.. no trouble!
- Caving at Horne Lake. A $5 bargain. Unguided, dark, and surprisingly challenging. Scrambling over muddy rocks deep in the ground..wahey!- Peak chair at Whistler. Civilised but fun! Steep near-vertical climb up the cliff, view of the glacier, snow at the top.
- Wading the Green River on horseback. Water up to the saddle and our knees pulled up, horses struggling against the current. Felt like we were in a Western disaster movie!
- Clambering over the rocks from Botanical Beach to Botany Bay. Juan de Fuca trail. Heavy damp fog made it all the more mysterious. Exploring the island at Botany Bay and trying not to fall in the sea.
- Steam-powered saw mill at Port Alberni. Could have watched all day! Amazing.
- Miller family reunion at Parksville. 32 people. Photos of everyone, Granma lifted in a chair.
- Mini golf. 3 times? 4? Brendan was addicted and dragged us kicking and screaming...
(I have a good number more pictures but unfortunately they're still in Canada..long story!)
Monday, August 29, 2005
Weekend wanderings
2 days, 420 miles, 3 cities, 4 highly secret locations, 7 friends, 2 farm vehicles, 3 dogs, 2 'detours' and almost 9 hrs in the car....a most excellent weekend!
Saturday morning, after a slightly hurried start, I made my way to my friend Caroline's farm in Suffolk. The A12 is not the fastest road in the world and this was the longest section of my trip by far. Lovely to be back in round bale land...highlights were rides in the combine harvester and the tractor (didn't drive it this time though!).
Then onwards to Cambridge and Susie's house. Time to quiz (and congratulate!) Jon on his engagement to Anastasia..and generally catch up with the Cambridge gossip.
Sunday morning found me on my way to Lincolnshire, to lunch with some old friends of the family, Judy and Roland. I caught up with Judy, read Roland's sermon (and managed to say the right things), had a yummy lunch, acquired an excellent painting and was off again, this time to York.
Stopped by to see Sherv's new house, the main challenge being to find it! Then, it was time to call an end to my wanderings and get back on the A1..homeward bound. Arrived at the Bonnington's just before 8 for a lovely evening catching up with Durham folks and a late game of Catan.
Things I found out:
- How Jon proposed
- Straw bales in Lincolnshire are square, not round
- The secret location of Sherv's cottage
- A combine harvester is a rather splendid piece of machinery
- Judy paints some excellent watercolour pictures
Saturday morning, after a slightly hurried start, I made my way to my friend Caroline's farm in Suffolk. The A12 is not the fastest road in the world and this was the longest section of my trip by far. Lovely to be back in round bale land...highlights were rides in the combine harvester and the tractor (didn't drive it this time though!).
Then onwards to Cambridge and Susie's house. Time to quiz (and congratulate!) Jon on his engagement to Anastasia..and generally catch up with the Cambridge gossip.
Sunday morning found me on my way to Lincolnshire, to lunch with some old friends of the family, Judy and Roland. I caught up with Judy, read Roland's sermon (and managed to say the right things), had a yummy lunch, acquired an excellent painting and was off again, this time to York.
Stopped by to see Sherv's new house, the main challenge being to find it! Then, it was time to call an end to my wanderings and get back on the A1..homeward bound. Arrived at the Bonnington's just before 8 for a lovely evening catching up with Durham folks and a late game of Catan.
Things I found out:
- How Jon proposed
- Straw bales in Lincolnshire are square, not round
- The secret location of Sherv's cottage
- A combine harvester is a rather splendid piece of machinery
- Judy paints some excellent watercolour pictures
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Magic Number 1
And now for a bit of maths...
(I continue to be fascinated with the strange results of probability theory..see the Monty Hall problem)
Did you know... if you take any large set of numerical data from randomly selected statistics (importantly, not 'pure' random numbers) then the number 1 will appear as a leading digit about 30% of the time.
The man who first brought this to light was called Dr. Frank Benford, and thus this strange result is called 'Benford's Law'. It is used in accounting to detect fraud, because, for a non-fraudulent set of accounts, running all the figures through a computer will give the result above - the number 1 appears as the leading digit (e.g. 13.00, 1.15, 1602.38) 30% of the time. A result that is significantly different from this and it's time to call in the auditors!
Check out this page for a fuller description. A nice demonstration of why this is the case can be found at the bottom of the page.
(I continue to be fascinated with the strange results of probability theory..see the Monty Hall problem)
Did you know... if you take any large set of numerical data from randomly selected statistics (importantly, not 'pure' random numbers) then the number 1 will appear as a leading digit about 30% of the time.
The man who first brought this to light was called Dr. Frank Benford, and thus this strange result is called 'Benford's Law'. It is used in accounting to detect fraud, because, for a non-fraudulent set of accounts, running all the figures through a computer will give the result above - the number 1 appears as the leading digit (e.g. 13.00, 1.15, 1602.38) 30% of the time. A result that is significantly different from this and it's time to call in the auditors!
Check out this page for a fuller description. A nice demonstration of why this is the case can be found at the bottom of the page.
Freedom and Uncertainty
We were having a discussion last night at dinner about freedom and uncertainty in the universe. I was reflecting on what the Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle (HUP) implies about the universe as created by God.
For those unfamiliar with Heisenberg’s theory, it’s this:
“The more precisely the position [of a particle, e.g. electron] is determined, the less precisely the momentum is known in this instant, and vice versa.”
In other words, you cannot know both a particle’s position and its movement at the same time. In the quantum world, you must speak in probabilities. For example, as this website helpfully explains:
I can only say that an atom will be at some location with a 99 % probability, and that there will be a 1 % probability it will be somewhere else (in fact, there will be a small but finite probability that it can even be found across the Universe).
Heisenberg was primarily concerned with measurement. His principle implied that previously certain Classical ‘realities’, such as speed, direction, mass, position, were meaningless in the new quantum world and he argued that some aspects come into existence only as they are measured. ("The 'path' comes into existence only when we observe it.") In this way, the uncertainty at the heart of the quantum world is not a result of our poor measurement technique, but an integral part of the universe itself.
This had massive implications, not least for Newton’s idea of causality. In simple terms, the classical view was that if the position and momentum of every particle in the universe could be determined, then you could predict the path of each based on the forces acting on it, i.e. predict the future. Of course, to Newton, only God could possibly have the observational and computational power to accomplish this. But, as Heisenberg pointed out: "In the sharp formulation of the law of causality—‘if we know the present exactly, we can calculate the future’-it is not the conclusion that is wrong but the premise." Essentially, what he’s saying is that it’s impossible to know the present exactly (but the limit is not on the knowing, but on the ‘exactly’).
The question I asked is, since the uncertainty principle seems to be part of the very fabric of the universe and an integral characteristic of quantum particles, is the universe ‘uncertain’ even to God? In the same way as He’s given us freedom, has He built a similar freedom into the physical universe?
Dad is reading Greg Boyd’s ‘Satan and the Problem of Evil’ and was similarly reflecting on what it meant for humans (and angels) to have real freedom, and the necessary uncertainty built into that.
Thoughts anyone?
(Quotes are taken from this website where you can also read more about Heisenberg)
For those unfamiliar with Heisenberg’s theory, it’s this:
“The more precisely the position [of a particle, e.g. electron] is determined, the less precisely the momentum is known in this instant, and vice versa.”
In other words, you cannot know both a particle’s position and its movement at the same time. In the quantum world, you must speak in probabilities. For example, as this website helpfully explains:
I can only say that an atom will be at some location with a 99 % probability, and that there will be a 1 % probability it will be somewhere else (in fact, there will be a small but finite probability that it can even be found across the Universe).
Heisenberg was primarily concerned with measurement. His principle implied that previously certain Classical ‘realities’, such as speed, direction, mass, position, were meaningless in the new quantum world and he argued that some aspects come into existence only as they are measured. ("The 'path' comes into existence only when we observe it.") In this way, the uncertainty at the heart of the quantum world is not a result of our poor measurement technique, but an integral part of the universe itself.
This had massive implications, not least for Newton’s idea of causality. In simple terms, the classical view was that if the position and momentum of every particle in the universe could be determined, then you could predict the path of each based on the forces acting on it, i.e. predict the future. Of course, to Newton, only God could possibly have the observational and computational power to accomplish this. But, as Heisenberg pointed out: "In the sharp formulation of the law of causality—‘if we know the present exactly, we can calculate the future’-it is not the conclusion that is wrong but the premise." Essentially, what he’s saying is that it’s impossible to know the present exactly (but the limit is not on the knowing, but on the ‘exactly’).
The question I asked is, since the uncertainty principle seems to be part of the very fabric of the universe and an integral characteristic of quantum particles, is the universe ‘uncertain’ even to God? In the same way as He’s given us freedom, has He built a similar freedom into the physical universe?
Dad is reading Greg Boyd’s ‘Satan and the Problem of Evil’ and was similarly reflecting on what it meant for humans (and angels) to have real freedom, and the necessary uncertainty built into that.
Thoughts anyone?
(Quotes are taken from this website where you can also read more about Heisenberg)
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
Photo tasters
One of the many waterfalls we stopped to visit. Brendan never misses an opportunity to get rid of his shirt...
For a while there the mini/crazy golf bug struck us hard. (I told them to make 'serious golfer' poses... not quite what I meant!)
A rather ominous thick sea fog makes its way towards us...
Granma surveys her crazy brood.
Another day, another lake, and another opportunity to strip off and go swimming!
For a while there the mini/crazy golf bug struck us hard. (I told them to make 'serious golfer' poses... not quite what I meant!)
A rather ominous thick sea fog makes its way towards us...
Granma surveys her crazy brood.
Another day, another lake, and another opportunity to strip off and go swimming!
Home at last
Wow, strange to be back in grey ol' London after such a trip. Just got back this morning after a killer longhaul flight..i'm so stiff! I was just glad to make it through passport control - my hair colour has seen a little change..
It's been a fab month and had some great adventures. But the best bit was definitely connecting with family. Ours is getting bigger each year and it's great to meet so many people that you have this shared connection with.
I'm thinking of putting some of the photos together with a mini account of the trip on a website when i get back to Durham. But for now, i'll put up one or two. Hard to know where to start! Plus you might want to check some of the photos on BJ's Garden blog.
Hope people are well and you've all had fab summers!
It's been a fab month and had some great adventures. But the best bit was definitely connecting with family. Ours is getting bigger each year and it's great to meet so many people that you have this shared connection with.
I'm thinking of putting some of the photos together with a mini account of the trip on a website when i get back to Durham. But for now, i'll put up one or two. Hard to know where to start! Plus you might want to check some of the photos on BJ's Garden blog.
Hope people are well and you've all had fab summers!
Sunday, August 14, 2005
Family Fun
I'm planning a fuller Canada story and photos when I get back but here's a look at the Miller clan...
Friday, July 22, 2005
It's arrived! yay!
Well, I've got there at last! Finished school for the year, I'm now in London - my last evening in England for a while. We're off at 8am tomorrow morning so no end-of-term lie-in for me! It's really exciting to be going back to Canada again, and I'm looking forward to getting on a plane again (first time in 5 years or so) and later going by boat, ferry, horseback, white water raft, kayak, bus, rental car and who knows what else? Yay!
Everyone, have a great summer. If you feel like saying hi I'd love to hear about what you're up to (you could even leave me a 'hello' by replying to this post with a comment!) and I'll try and reply when i get connected.. Otherwise, I'll see you all soon xx
Everyone, have a great summer. If you feel like saying hi I'd love to hear about what you're up to (you could even leave me a 'hello' by replying to this post with a comment!) and I'll try and reply when i get connected.. Otherwise, I'll see you all soon xx
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Family life
For a glimpse of life in the London Millers house check out this poem about my brother's birthday party preparations... it made me laugh a lot!
Saturday, July 16, 2005
War of the Worlds
If you haven't seen this yet (and especially if you don't know the book), look out for the splinter scene with his daughter.. it's the key to the whole story!
Wednesday, July 13, 2005
Making house
I have been pondering recently the mystery of a 'good house' (and i'm not talking about the physical building). What are the things which make a house somewhere you'd want to live?
Something that's really important to me is hospitality, although I'm not always as good as I'd like to be! What makes a house hospitable? What makes it a warm place to be and somewhere you feel comfortable?
Here are some ideas to be starting off with..
Values shared by housemates (e.g. hospitality)
Full part played by every housemate (rights and responsibilities)
Shared ownership (seems important but hard to define exactly what I mean.. something like 'we're in it together')
Meals together
Joint 'expenses' (food etc)
Welcoming guests - whoever has invited them
Decisions discussed together and nothing 'assumed' (tricky!)
I like to have housemates who look out for me and aren't afraid to challenge me when necessary
Any others?
Something that's really important to me is hospitality, although I'm not always as good as I'd like to be! What makes a house hospitable? What makes it a warm place to be and somewhere you feel comfortable?
Here are some ideas to be starting off with..
Any others?
Postcard pathos
If you haven't seen it already, check out the link to Postsecret on Hils' Jog Blog. What a fantastic idea and in some cases an eye opener. The comments, as well as the postcards, are worth reading.
Sunday, July 10, 2005
Durham Miners' Gala
The Gala (pronounced gae-la rather than gar-la apparently!) was great fun yesterday. I've never seen so many marching bands in one place before! Durham was as full as I've ever seen it and definitely not with students. The music and the banners were great and I was starting to feel some stirrings of socialist sympathy..but then the speeches started. So stereotypical that I couldn't take them seriously, they felt like some bizarre self-parody.
I felt completely out of my depth in some ways, a different country where I didn't really belong, or indeed never really visited. But I loved seeing some glimpse of the history of the people and the land up here..I feel like I understand Durham better for it.
I got chatting to various people during the day, on the street and in shops..everyone had a different take on the day, some merely resigned. A shopkeeper on North Road said they used to have to board up the shops along there, and there was certainly a very visible police presence on the street. We heard the odd rumour of 'trouble' later in the day, but generally it all seemed very good natured.
I felt completely out of my depth in some ways, a different country where I didn't really belong, or indeed never really visited. But I loved seeing some glimpse of the history of the people and the land up here..I feel like I understand Durham better for it.
I got chatting to various people during the day, on the street and in shops..everyone had a different take on the day, some merely resigned. A shopkeeper on North Road said they used to have to board up the shops along there, and there was certainly a very visible police presence on the street. We heard the odd rumour of 'trouble' later in the day, but generally it all seemed very good natured.
Journal
Seymour, in his article on journaling on our group blog has inspired me to start a proper journal again. His idea for a DNPQ structure appeals to me, so let's see how it goes!
I bought a niceish notebook from Smiths.. it has a quote from Proust on the front: "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes but in having new eyes", which kind of sums up what I see as part of the value in journaling. Being able to reflect on life, not only as you write, but as part of a larger whole, a 'history' if you like.
I bought a niceish notebook from Smiths.. it has a quote from Proust on the front: "The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes but in having new eyes", which kind of sums up what I see as part of the value in journaling. Being able to reflect on life, not only as you write, but as part of a larger whole, a 'history' if you like.
Friday, July 08, 2005
World press
The BBC News website is always excellent and the depth and breadth of coverage regularly amazes me...I'm always coming across hidden gems of news, opinion and features. Anyway, enough of the advert, I thought this article gave a fascinating glimpse into the reaction from the world's media to yesterday's bomb attacks, many of them echoing the resilience theme.
Thursday, July 07, 2005
Strange days
What a strange couple of days for London.
I was surprised yesterday by an unexpected strength of feeling about the Olympics announcement, a curious patriotic pride and triumph. I didn't expect us to win but when the announcement came I felt as if I was celebrating an almost personal victory, albeit a quietly-stated one.
Then today, it was with a calm shock that I listened to my year 8's talking about bombs in London. Surely not. But they wouldn't think to make up something like that, would they? I checked the news on my PC and was almost surprised to find out that it was true. I refused to panic or get excited and insisted that we continue with the lesson, despite cries to turn on the television in my lab. In continuing with normal life, I felt as if I was resisting, fighting back somehow. As I checked the BBC news I remember thinking, with a disconnected clarity, that the number of casualties seemed very low and surely there were a lot of gaps in the picture. I was on a split lunch lesson and when the bell came I rang home. Mum confirmed that everyone was fine and Bren had cycled to work in Hackney this morning.
She spoke, in a way I've heard repeated a few times this afternoon, (for example, on this digest of London blogs on the TimesOnline website) of the way in which Londoners would not be cowed by today's events and would go on regardless. As I spoke to her, I heard an echo of Blitz resilience come down from my Grandma, who speaks proudly yet frankly of the way in which Londoners went on with their lives as bombs dropped around them.
A blogger is quoted on the Times page saying:
"There is no other nation on earth that can absorb crisis with such calmness and professionalism as Britain..The terrorists’ anger towards us pales into insignificance with our determination to beat them. And we will."
Tony Blair echoed this determination in his speech which I saw repeated several times in the afternoon.
I feel so disconnected from events in London, and yet in me there's a strong pang of solidarity with my home city. I feel more like a Londoner than ever.
I'm finding it hard to picture familar places, like Liverpool Street station, closed and somehow defiled. The static familar images of my home seem violated, although I'm acknowledging in myself a lean towards the melodramatic here. Perhaps I'm overcompensating, because in some ways I'm struggling to feel anything, a sense of shock combined with distance has combined to give a slightly numb edge to my reflections.
In some ways, I'm trying not to imagine it.. I've spent too many hours in those packed underground carriages to want to picture being trapped down there in such confusion. On the other hand, stories of people making their way home across London this evening, an exodus by foot and boat, have the appeal of an adventure, of the making-do camaraderie that descends in such times. All in all, mixed feelings, or lack of. I feel a simultaneous need to talk about it yet not to brood on it, and there's lots to say, yet nothing really to add.
I was surprised yesterday by an unexpected strength of feeling about the Olympics announcement, a curious patriotic pride and triumph. I didn't expect us to win but when the announcement came I felt as if I was celebrating an almost personal victory, albeit a quietly-stated one.
Then today, it was with a calm shock that I listened to my year 8's talking about bombs in London. Surely not. But they wouldn't think to make up something like that, would they? I checked the news on my PC and was almost surprised to find out that it was true. I refused to panic or get excited and insisted that we continue with the lesson, despite cries to turn on the television in my lab. In continuing with normal life, I felt as if I was resisting, fighting back somehow. As I checked the BBC news I remember thinking, with a disconnected clarity, that the number of casualties seemed very low and surely there were a lot of gaps in the picture. I was on a split lunch lesson and when the bell came I rang home. Mum confirmed that everyone was fine and Bren had cycled to work in Hackney this morning.
She spoke, in a way I've heard repeated a few times this afternoon, (for example, on this digest of London blogs on the TimesOnline website) of the way in which Londoners would not be cowed by today's events and would go on regardless. As I spoke to her, I heard an echo of Blitz resilience come down from my Grandma, who speaks proudly yet frankly of the way in which Londoners went on with their lives as bombs dropped around them.
A blogger is quoted on the Times page saying:
"There is no other nation on earth that can absorb crisis with such calmness and professionalism as Britain..The terrorists’ anger towards us pales into insignificance with our determination to beat them. And we will."
Tony Blair echoed this determination in his speech which I saw repeated several times in the afternoon.
I feel so disconnected from events in London, and yet in me there's a strong pang of solidarity with my home city. I feel more like a Londoner than ever.
I'm finding it hard to picture familar places, like Liverpool Street station, closed and somehow defiled. The static familar images of my home seem violated, although I'm acknowledging in myself a lean towards the melodramatic here. Perhaps I'm overcompensating, because in some ways I'm struggling to feel anything, a sense of shock combined with distance has combined to give a slightly numb edge to my reflections.
In some ways, I'm trying not to imagine it.. I've spent too many hours in those packed underground carriages to want to picture being trapped down there in such confusion. On the other hand, stories of people making their way home across London this evening, an exodus by foot and boat, have the appeal of an adventure, of the making-do camaraderie that descends in such times. All in all, mixed feelings, or lack of. I feel a simultaneous need to talk about it yet not to brood on it, and there's lots to say, yet nothing really to add.
I've been googled!
"Ben Medlock" has the honour of being the first Google search term to produce a referral to my blog. It appears about 3 pages in... But who followed the link? I'm thinking it must be someone we know... care to own up?
Sunday, July 03, 2005
Make Poverty History
Saturday I was in Edinburgh for the Make Poverty History march, with my friend Helena and a friend of hers, Vic. It was my first protest and I had no idea what to expect. All a lot more organised and civilised than I'd thought! There was a great buzz though and the march around the city lots of fun.
While we were waiting to march, we looked around everywhere for a suitable banner and I was quite excited to acquire this Christian Aid banner and some Tearfund balloons... here I am posing proudly with my finds:
While we were waiting to march, we looked around everywhere for a suitable banner and I was quite excited to acquire this Christian Aid banner and some Tearfund balloons... here I am posing proudly with my finds:
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