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“A child’s world is fresh and new and beautiful, full of wonder and excitement.  It is our misfortune that for most of us that clear-eyed vision, that true instinct for what is beautiful and awe-inspiring, is dimmed and even lost before we reach adulthood.  If I had influence with the good fairy who is supposed to preside over the christening of all children I should ask that her gift to each child in the world be a sense of wonder so indestructible that it would last throughout life, as an unfailing antidote against the boredom and disenchantments of later years, the sterile preoccupation with things that are artificial, the alienation from the sources of our strength.”

Rachel Carson, The Sense of Wonder (1956)

WELCOME

The purpose of this blog is to share thoughts regarding the central place of “wonder” in adult education.  As Carson suggests, though rich in rewards, maintaining an attitude that values curiosity throughout life can be challenging.  For me, this is why learning in adulthood is so important and why it’s the very essence of the field of study referred to as adult education.  This blog especially promotes and celebrates the value of spending time out doors and traveling – both excellent vehicles for maintaining “wonder” throughout life.  This is done in a variety of ways but primarily via writings and photographs.  The blog has been organized around six main sections: Adult Education (writings related to some adult education themes); Photographs (included are some of my favorite photographs); Posts (periodic updates and ramblings); Travel (highlights from some recent adventures); Up and Coming (announcements related to some up and coming events/travels); and Wonder (a collection of some very special critters and places).  Another purpose of the blog is to announce that I now have more time for speaking engagements — I can be contacted via the Contact link.

(Note: Whenever possible I ask permission to photograph individuals.  Sometimes when individuals participate in cultural events, I receive permission to photograph from event organizers.  If for any reason an individual wishes that his or her photograph not be included in this blog please contact me (Contact link) and it will be removed.)