January: learnings

It’s almost February, and Emily P. Freeman invites us to share things we’ve learned in January. So that’s what I’m doing. There were more learnings, but I consider 15 enough for sharing. (The button at the bottom will take you to Emily’s blog.)

1. I learned about what it’s like to be a bridesmaid in your youngest brother’s wedding. Because I was one. And I enjoyed it. 2. I learned a bit about the Saudi Arabian monarchy when I learned that King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia had died. I learned that the modern Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was established in 1932 by King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud, and that, since that king’s death in 1953, various of his sons have ruled. So that King Abdullah has been succeeded by his brother, King Salman.

3. I learned a bit about how hungry for hope the people of North Korea are: they risk their lives to see South Korean soap operas, in a land where news of advanced technology and rice at every meal may be the best news they ever hear. Because

4. On this list of the 50 countries where it is most difficult to be a Christian, North Korea is #1.

5. I learned that when you find an uncapped fountain pen in your bed in the middle of the night, you may be grateful that this is all the ink that ends up on your hand: 6. I learned some of the things that happen in season 5 of Downton Abbey because I’ve been watching it. Much of the magic left with Matthew back in season 3, but in spite of Mary’s stupidity, I still — silly me — care about her. (And it’s also making me excited for season 4 of Call the Midwife, because I like that show better.)

7. I learned about what it’s like to be teaching twelve hours of college courses. More eventful than only six or nine, but manageable. 8. I learned that there’s a contemporary worship song that includes the phrase “a sloppy wet kiss.” I also read a bit about the author’s reasoning for that line, but I still can’t bring myself to believe that it would be anything but distracting to stand in church and sing it.

9. I learned that something called a Lisfranc injury exists, because my middlest brother has one. It’s not optimal for active males in their mid-twenties to be confined to crutches. But sometimes it is necessary.

10. I learned about some of the ways that God has been answering prayers lately. And that was — and is — exciting.

11. I learned that Indian food is tasty — at least Kadhai Goat, Lamb Biryani, and Onion Pakora are tasty.

12. I learned that I’m about as bad a putt-putt golfer as I ever was.

13. I learned about things growing: 14. And about things dying: 15. And about how God makes beautiful and makes glad.

And behold, it was very good. ©2015 by Stacy Nott