My son uttered the phrase TIL to something that I said. I had no idea what it meant till he explained “Today I Learned”. I realize that that is quite a profound statement. I think we should learn something every day even if might be considered trivial. In the last couple of days I learned a thing or two.

Power of Lightning

Lightning is five times hotter than the surface of the sun, 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Over the weekend we had quite an impressive storm. One the strikes set fire to a pine tree in a nearby cemetery. The fire department was called during the storm. I already knew that Lightning was powerful but seeing the aftermath up close makes quite an impression.

Oak trees are a more likely target for lightning strikes. During this storm the tree literally exploded when struck. The end result is impressive.

Ravens are smart

I heard a great raven story this week at a grain and feed store. The check out associate told me of a raven that hangs around the store when the deliveries are made. The raven swoops down to peck at bags of dog food trying to decide which is the tastiest. I often hear them at home but so far none have paid me a visit.

I learned about Arteriogenesis

I required a stent in my heart artery early in June. This week I went for an orientation for cardiac rehab. I was lamenting the fact that clogged arteries cannot be unclogged when I was informed that the body is capable of growing new arteries, a process known as Arteriogenesis. Apparently this is facilitated by exercise which seems to be the common solution to so many problems.

Learning to Listen

I missed playing music with friends during the Covid shutdown. I think the most important thing one learns by playing with others is the art of listening. Being aware of the tempo and melody and how to contribute. This is not a solo activity. It is also great fun.

Learning from Books

After I finished reading Finding the Mother Tree by Suzanne Simard i started reading Flushed, How the Plumber saved Civilization by W, Hodding Carter. The author’s description of his plumbing attempts and the Roman communal toilets makes this a must read. The book begins with some words to live by.

The Society which scorns excellence in plumbing because plumbing is a humble activity, and tolerates shoddiness in philosophy because philosophy is an exalted activity, will have neither good plumbing nor good philosophy. Neither its pipes nor its theories will hold water.

John W, Gardner – American Activist