ElderChicks

I’m reading “The Rise and Development of Calvinsim in America.” (Ed. John Bratt, 1959). I was raised in a Calvinstic tradition but never had a course in it. So I’ve resurrencted an old textbook of my husband’s and am thoroughly enjoying it. I”ve run into some comments in my own higher education where folks have said with some incredulity, “So you’re a Calvinist?’ as if that was some very bad thing. I never felt it was  repressive, so, at this late date in my life, ‘m trying to understand where those comments were coming from. I may even dive into Calvin’s “Instiututes” from 1559 someday!

On a completely different note, a friend asked me to read “The Cross in the Closet” by Timothy Kurek. Although, it could use some closer editing, it was good for me to read as a 71-year old trying to understand all lifestyles. This young man, raised in a strict religious home, went undercover for a year as gay and tells of his experiences. A helpful eyeopener.

And, finally, I’m busy reading my required texts for the fourth and final year of the Basic Program of Liberal Education for Adults at the University of Chicago. We’re reading Plato’s “Phaedo” about Socrates’ conception of the immortality of the soul and also the American documents. I’ve learned so much about the Constititution that I never knew. Another eye opener.

This retirement time is so wonderful to be able to muse over what I’ve missed in the past. I feel thankful each day for the time. Thanks for bringing for this topic!