Learning

I believe learning is sooo important. True, I don't expect many folks to disagree with this and I believe it is a widely accepted view. Somehow I just get jostled by surprise when nearly every day I am conscious I have learned a thing. The best things are not new facts committed to memory in some way, but realizing I have been changed by what I have seen or heard. These days it frequently comes in the form of textbook reading or hearing a lecture. It is important to expose oneself to these moments, by reading or listening; this is not always an easy part for it is very convenient to watch a movie (or tv) or hang on the computer.

My favorite is when it comes from a conversation with a friend. And I have to admit, my very very favorite is when I learn something about me..Often however it's more of an acceptance of something about me. For instance, when I decide to believe a thing about my worth or value or capability that previously was hidden by some old lie.

I do not want to blame stuff or people here, but I believe I was raised in a narrow-minded sort of group or region, or something. Becoming aware of different ways people think, feel, live still feels like "aha!" moments. Perhaps it is good to not get over amazement. Actually, the amazing things in life are the ones that keep a person going - - no, more than that; they keep a person revved! Like when I realize I'm playing piano "better" than I once did, ever did. How did that happen? Some new energy and belief came with the new piano somehow... ? Or that God's grace has shaped me into someone who can be generous in ways I never considered. Another is that I can be comfortable with people I used to throw into boxes, "Oh, theeeyyyy, don't . blah . . want. .think . . about/with me. ." or "I'm sorry, you expect ME to get involved with . . talk to . . provide . . for him/her . . . "

It feels like grace to me. I am grateful for it. Quite possibly it is the most amazing of all the things.