Contrary to what we often assume, the earth is not solid under our feet. Sand dunes shift with the wind, soil moves with water, and the great tectonic plates of our planet drift slowly under us. So it is inevitable that cracks will develop—all at once in the great shift of an earthquake, or so slowly that the drift is imperceptible until we turn and notice a gap in our understanding of the world.
Where do you see shift happening in your life?
A fascinating shift is taking place for me. At this time I am hostessing a young Nigerian chemist whose parents I knew in my city about 30 years ago. He has completed his master’s degree in India sponsored by Nigeria and has come here to seek employment. He was born here and has dreamed of “America” for many years. In our comments during meals and sightseeing travel in the city, we have discussed his beliefs as a Muslim. He is very clear in his understanding of his religion and it has given me a large amount of knowledge about the religion. Rarely do two people of very different perspectives talk openly in this way. I hope I have presented UU-ism in my best light. We have never challenged each other about the information that we have imparted to each other. It is a very valuable interchange, I think, especially in this day and age.
My medications are being adjusted. I started a new one awhile back, and the dose has been slowly increased. For the last two weeks, I’ve struggled with dizziness, nausea, and exhaustion. Today I found out that this new medication may be the cause of this, even though when these symptoms started and when the dose was increased are a week apart. Now the dose is to be decreased again, at least until my normal doctor comes back. I don’t know what – if anything – will be done about the symptoms the medication was supposed to alleviate.
I’m also adjusting to new glasses. I got them on Friday, and I’m still not used to them. I miss wearing contacts (!), but until they are ruled out as the cause of my eye irritation, I can’t wear them. My old glasses were smaller and caused less distortion, but they kept slipping and sliding.