More Laughs, More Fun

I woke up bright and early this morning at 6:20 AM, a little under an hour earlier than the usual time I wake up. The reason why I woke up so early was because I went with ten of my guy friends to the recreation center to play some basketball. Because of that, I've been pretty tired throughout the whole day. It's amazing how much energy these guys have.

Today in class, we read and analyzed how suffering played a role in religious practices. It made me realize the many mysteries and unexplained ways religions have. The question that was brought up was if either God causes suffering, humans cause suffering, or if the Devil causes suffering. It was very interesting, and there's no claim that can be fully proved about suffering, and what its meaning spiritually is.

We also learned how eating played a role in religious practices. Eating is for human survival, and so food is a huge part of different cultures. Healthy food and the dinner table help us to be grateful for what we have and thank God.

Later, my class and I took a field trip to the Cathedral of the Incarnation. Despite going to a Catholic church several times back at home, I still happened to find some differences. Even though it was a weekday, there was still absolutely no singing. The cathedral was huge, yet there were very few people in there. I never fully realized what total silence can do in a church--not to mention a cathedral. I also didn't realize how much Catholicism emphasizes the Eucharist. Standing and kneeling also helps to emphasize the crucial parts of mass--such as the ringing of bells.

In the van on the way to the cathedral

Grandma and Mom, I'm praying again for you guys.

Anna and I in front of Mother Mary

The girls (and Christien) in my class are all very nice. As you can see from the pictures, we're all good friends now. Too many laughs are being shared with these people, and I'm glad they're in my class. They get very sidetracked in class, but, of course, it's fine because they know when to be serious and get work done.

I also learned how to line dance a little. I figured I should do it because, well, I'm in the South. I left pretty fast though, so I only know the basics of the form of dance. Overall, today was basically a "chiller" day compared to the others--just with a lot of walking. I had the opportunity to just hang out with more of my recently made friends.

It was a great day today. There will be more to talk about tomorrow. Good night!