More on Berry

Discussion of Berry on the university here. Hat tip to Bill.

Wendell Berry pulls papers

Wendell Berry has pulled his papers from the University of Kentucky in protest of the university's growing emphasis on research and their cozy relationship with the coal industry. Read about it here.
Thanks to Front Porch Republic.

Second Annual Italian Pilgrimage

Reflections on laptops in the classroom

I found this piece arguing that laptops should be banned from the classroom convincing although I had students using them this term and it didn't seem to be a problem. Perhaps it was because the students using them tended to be highly involved in the class discussion and perhaps it was because of the size of the class and shape of the room but I didn't mind them. I do remember in another class, however, making a joke about them watching hockey and realizing when I saw the look on their faces that that was exactly what they were doing. So generally I agree with this argument but didn't find it to be an issue this term. But then, this term I had a wonderful group of students and enjoyed teaching immensely. I'm just sorry the term is done!

New Book

The latest Christian Century came in the mail today and there is a reference in it to Sara Miles, author of Jesus Freak. I had a moment of excitement that the author of Eat this Bread had a new book, an even bigger rush of excitement when it turned out Chapters had a copy of it, and 40 glorious minutes reading it while sitting in the hospital emergency room. I can't wait for tomorrow's three more stints hooked up to an IV to read more.

Steve Bell, Jean Vanier, Avatar and Seeing

Just read this and felt the immediate need to share it. May we all be see-ers and seen.


Thanks Dale for the link.

Haiti

It has been distressing seeing the pictures coming out of Haiti this week. Donations can be made on-line, including by interact, at Canada Helps. The Primate's World Relief and Development fund is accepting donations ear marked for Haiti as is Oxfam. It is easy and it means so much.