A horse's saddle seems to be a popular spot for characters in old Western films and cowboy legends to learn important life lessons and reach profound insights about nature or humanity. I'm picturing a lone, rugged cowboy riding across the plains and sleeping under the stars, his horse roped to a tree near the campfire while he plays his harmonica ... [Read More…]
Students offer crash course in creative arts
This Saturday the Shinnery Review, ACU's literary publication, will bring students from all departments together for a free afternoon "Crash Course" in photography, poetry and fiction writing. The goal of the event is to give students an opportunity to learn more about artistic and creative outlets that might not be easily accessible in every ... [Read More…]
Tutor discovers gift of learning
Last weekend I received a phone call from a Bhutanese refugee here in Abilene. Â In English so much improved from when she first arrived in the U.S. two years ago, she asked if I would look over a paper she wrote for a college class she's taking. I said of course, and spent a half hour over chai tea, correcting her spelling mistakes and finding ... [Read More…]
Text abbreviations do not belong in conversation
OMG. This is OOMWPP, BTW. Why do we AENAD? In MOO, using TL outside of TM is SNF. Translation: Oh my goodness. This is one of my worst pet peeves, by the way. Why do we abbreviate everything nowadays? In my own opinion, using texting lingo outside of text messages is so not funny. Before I begin my non-abbreviated diatribe against using texting ... [Read More…]
Summer teaches lessons in laziness
I knew something was wrong this summer when my mother informed me that I had a dentist appointment the next day at 11 a.m., and I called to change it because I didn't want to wake up that early. It was only when every ounce of my effort scarcely got me into the car for my 3 p.m. appointment that I realized the severity of my condition. I'm almost ... [Read More…]
Coloradan adjusts to Texas life
Three years ago, a younger, more idealistic me considered the great country - I mean state - of Texas the last place on earth I would ever choose to live. Two weeks ago, an older, more realistic me made the 12 hour drive from Denver to Abilene to begin my third year at ACU. I came to Texas determined to cling to my Coloradan culture and leave, ... [Read More…]