Today I spoke with my friend in Israel through a video conference system at work. I met her parents who are French and other relatives. All of her family live in Jerusalem and came to her home to visit for Chanukah. As a bonus they got to watch her teach her American students from her home in Israel. This is one of my favorite accomplishments, having created this fantastic connection for our students. In order that they may learn a language as difficult as Hebrew with a native speaker who is living in Israel -in real time - this is a very unique and wonderful experience... especially for children who are 10 and 11 years old!
As I reflect on this part of my day (something different - chatting with my Israeli friends) I am happy... I love my job and the flexibility it affords me to meet people from all walks of life, communicate online regularly, be a part of the growing, changing and flattening world. Thomas Friedman described this phenomenon in his book, "The World is Flat" and I witness it more and more. Just the other day, my cousin in Florida put out an all call for people to connect with her through Skype. Our lexicon has changed in such a way that Skype is not just the name of a service but the thing we do, "Let's Skype!". Back in the day there was much ado about calling a photocopy a copy not a "Xerox" although, many people would say, "make a xerox of that". Now you Google something, then you will send a BBM, and Skype with your friends about it while Facebooking with them. Ugh! It is becoming an interesting world and the technological impact on our lexicon will continue to pose a challenge at the Vatican while they struggle to translate all of this into Latin, (really).
The best part of all of this is that it creates awe when you think about it. The changes around us are fascinating, but sometimes I wish I could freeze time. Some days shouldn't go by so quickly, some you want to make last and last. Especially when you know what the next day will bring. Like the last day you will ever spend with someone - if you knew in advance what would you change?
I know I usually write about things like keeping my head where my feet are, and increasing my appreciation of the moment... but, today, I am feeling a little in awe of life in general. I want to just hold on to each little thing a second longer and slow it all down.
There are moments you remember all your life - there are moments you wait for and dream of all your life - I always want to capture these moments. Maybe it's just me, maybe life is going a little bit more quickly, either way I am full of wonderment about life today. Impressed with our changing lexicon, new technologies, warm moments with loved ones and all of it. (something new - again)
I'm sitting here, kind of bummed because a mouse is
ReplyDeleteliving in my house, instead of outdoors where it belongs (boy they sure do poop a lot), and kind of feeling sorry for myself and then I read your blog.
I realize I can joke about it on facebook and here with you and I'll get lots of funny feedback, which will all make it a little easier to deal with. I feel blessed to be living at this time and especially blessed by knowing you. Thanks.