“The Planet Is Doomed”

Notes from the front line of college teaching, as reported by my cousin Cindy:

I just started the ecology section in my biology for non-majors classes. I had to spend 10 minutes yesterday convincing one of my classes (23 out of 28 students!) that fire is not a living thing (and some of them still did not believe me — one woman with teenaged children also tried to tell me that water was alive).

And these are all high school graduates!

One of my fellow teachers said, “So, they think every time they strike a match, they are creating life?”…wow, what gods these mortals be.

Plaaaaaaaaay Ball!

With high hopes, with desperate prayers, the season begins. And the Sporting News thinks the Phillies are going all the way in 2003.

Friday Five

1. What was your most memorable moment from the last week?

Tuesday about 4PM. I’m still in shock.

2. What one person touched your life this week?

Touched in a good way? Michele, as always. My friend Joe, who made sarcastic jokes that made me laugh when sympathy would have broken me.

3. How have you helped someone this week?

I’ve written thoughtful answers to a bunch of LJ posts. I’ve done my job at work, therefore ensuring that many people can use the new software with ease (when it comes out).

4. What one thing do you need to get done by this time next week?

Get birthday presents for Michele and my boss. Their birthdays are one day apart.

5. What one thing will you do over the next seven days to make your world a better place?

I’m making chili and cornbread tomorrow, which will make the D&D folk happy, and I’m putting together the joint birthday party for the three Aries members of the group.

Does Pennsylvania Suck?

Neil Gaiman’s daughter says yes.

A Thought on Monsters

The monsters of our childhood do not fade away, neither are they ever wholly monstrous.

—John LeCarre