Date: Tuesday, October 28th
Time: 4:30-5:30
Today class had an opportunity to observe a different type of classroom: an outdoor classroom. I viewed today's adventure as a sort of opportunity to learn from an external point of view and to rather experience learning in a very hands on way. Dr. Redick provided an analogy that really stuck with me today. He explained that trees can communicate with humans in a similar way that dogs communicate with their owners. For example, trees communicate through their liveliness; through this I started noticing the different postures of surrounding trees. Some stood tall and strong communicating that they were healthy and content while others struggled to keep their remaining live branches just that: alive. Its inspiring to take such an everyday object and interpret it on a completely different level. When Dr. Redick explained this, it reminded me about a fact I had learned in elementary school science; that a plant grows towards the sun. The more I thought about this the more I started to connect deeper meaning to this. The ancient Greeks believed in Helios the God of the Sun. To them, this phenomenon could have symbolized a growing seedling reaching towards the sun in search of guidance or help. In Christianity, light is also interpreted synonymously with the idea of heaven. I'm not sure why that specific fact came to mind during Redick's speech but I am glad it did in the sense that I may not have reached that deeper understanding had I not remembered that.
Aside from the trees, my focus was also drawn to the water. It was so calm and looked so clean (despite the fact that it probably isn't that clean in reality). I felt a sense of relaxation just dazing into the water and noticing the sun reflecting of the gentle ripples of the water. The serenity of a happy family of geese enjoying a family dinner on the pond. It's amazing to me to see this compilation of God's creations in one small area. I think the biggest thing I got out of todays adventure is that it's the simple things that can have the greatest impact on those of us who take the time and appreciate the wonderful blessings God has given us. I guess I'm just, well, thankful.
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