Dad Loved Learning (Jeanne)

As I've gotten more of my parents' papers to sort through and recycle or shred, I sometimes think about having some "time capsule" moments. This piece of paper in my dad's writing is one of them.

It says "I would like to learn an effective method of studying that will enable me to retain knowledge and help me to compete with other students in the years to come. I would like to learn efficient reading, note taking, also how to better concentrate upon the things that I do."

This was when he was taking classes at Normandale Community College after he retired. It was before his hands started getting so shaky. It was before he lost his vision to macular degeneration.

It also brings to mind his stories of school in Canada. He only "went through the eighth grade" but told us that he had learned all the curriculum through the tenth grade because of the one-room school house model. He loved to tell stories about going to night classes at "West High" and getting his GED.

He was so very proud when he graduated from Normandale with his Associate of Arts degree. I should find that photo and post it here! He was the oldest student and everyone knew who he was.

I also find it very interesting that his goal statement includes the word "compete" . . . yes, he was very competitive. He loved to learn, but he also loved to win.

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A Dad Story: Memories Lost (Jeanne)

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It's weird for me to think that my perception of childhood was that we weren't very musical . . . and yet I keep having memories of songs from my childhood! Yesterday the song "It's Me, Oh Lord" came to mind and I started singing it. What a blast from the 70s! I know we sang it as part of the worship music at St. Joan of Arc Church, but I also wish I could have a conversation with my parents about the words. It definitely stems from Matthew 7:3-5 about taking the log from your own eye before trying to remove the splinter from someone else's. (Actually, I say "definitely" because that's my own perspective. Perhaps I'm way off!) Anyhow, I can absolutely say that I need prayer. Every day, every hour of the day. We sang this song a lot - mostly at church, but at other times, too. It's a good reminder that I am in need of prayer. I need God's grace, love, and mercy. I wonder what my parents thought about this song. Here's a link ...

Eileen and Larry Somers

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