Edna St. Vincent Millay

One of the ways in which I like to make a mental escape from my studies is to delve into those poetry books that are always strewn around my room so that where ever I sit, there is one within reach. This morning, I was lucky enough to steal a few moments with Edna St. Vincent Millay... On most morning, Ms. Millay, I enjoy your poetry. This morning, I love your poetry. I would encourage anyone to pick up her poems, and highly recommend her biography, Savage Beauty-well written story of an intriguing life.

I shall forget you presently, my dear,

-Millay

I shall forget you presently, my dear,

So make the most of this, your little day,

Your little month, your little half a year,

Ere I forget, or die, or move away,

And we are done forever; by and by

I shall forget you, as I said, but now,

If you entreat me with your loveliest lie

I will protest you with my favorite vow.

I would indeed that love were longer-lived,

And oaths were not so brittle as they are,

But so it is, and nature has contrived

To struggle on without a break thus far,—

Whether or not we find what we are seeking

Is idle, biologically speaking.

Welcome!

Well after a the first month of Seminary is coming to a close I can say that I am glad I came. I can also say that I am glad that the sign to which I am pointing was changed to not use text speak shortly after my arrival. I can also say that I am grateful there were other metaphorical signs which pointed me to this school... that didn't use text speak... :)

Berkeley is a beautiful city and it is growing on me. Our seminary is part of the Graduate Theological Union which means that we have the opportunity to meet, mix, and mingle with classmates from other christian traditions and other religions as well.

Strawberries. I missed this about California: such good fruit.

Outdoor worship service on the Pacific School of Religion lawn. I think one of the best parts of being here is the opportunity to worship, and to participate in the planning of worship services on a nearly daily basis. There is a lot of freedom and joy in listening to God through prayer about planning a service to facilitate deeper relationships with God. It is... awesome, in the fullest sense of the word.

Almost as cool as being serenaded by two friends on a sunny afternoon. This was before we had a chance to delve into our school work, you can tell because of the relaxed smiles and sunshine. We still have the sunshine... and the smiles... and every so often we sing a song or two and dare to relax.