responding to Christine and Melanie

First of all--to Christine. I am happy to hear you're finding the class discussion so stimulating. I am too. Don't be shy--everyone's contributions are important and your reaction to a passage may be a point of view that no one else thought about! About the Alchemist and philosophy courses, Melanie. I totally agree that everyone should take some philosophy --that abstract thinking ability stretches your mind! I know the Alchemist stayed with me for days. I had a high school friend visit last week who is about to take a semester at sea and travel around the world for the next three months. I was so impressed with her! She's just putting all her goods in storage and following this dream she has always had. I, on the other hand, am working at creating a home for myself here in Shep-town--thinking about my house and what I want to do with it. It really struck me what different spots we are in--and in light of the alchemist, I was wondering if I was compromising a dream of exotic travel. But for me, home is about going inside--and my home reflects a lot of who am. So maybe that's another kind of adventure...

Melanie--I'll work on a family tree and have it for Thursday! PD