Currently I am involved in correspondence with a distant cousin who is reading my book. I have been feeling frustration during this interaction, in having to explain simple concepts, such as the meaning of “ca” (circa, or approximate) which was carefully outlined in the introduction to the book, but it evidently didn’t stick, which is not unusual when someone is learning new things. I rein in my frustration, and methodically address each and every concern presented to me. The first few questions were to attempt to point out to me “mistakes” in the book. Each “mistake” that was presented to me, I considered a possible error on my part, and so each was investigated in that light. As I carefully reviewed these “mistakes” with the person, we discovered that they were actually a result of their not reading the material thoroughly. The “you made a mistake” approach to making an inquiry of this nature is not endearing. Genealogy can be very complex, particularly when given names are used down through the generations. I am very glad that I was assisting this cousin through messaging, as I fear my tone of voice, or facial expression might hint at my frustration.
As I have been struggling along with this interaction today, I have reminded myself how many people have assisted me in my learning. I particularly remember how patient some of the UNIX nerds were with me, when I was at the beginning of that learning curve. They only tolerated me because I was doing the work for myself, reading, studying, researching; had I tried to rely on them to give me information that was readily available in books or online, they would not have given me the time of day. There have been many people who have shared their time with me, some patient, some not so patient. But they all extended themselves to help me, to varying degrees. I feel it behoves me to patiently move through this current interaction with patience and respect. Perhaps this cousin deals with dementia, a severe learning disability, a low IQ; one never knows what challenges other people are facing in their lives.
How dreary the day appeared today! The window was wet the day through from wind driven rain. The sky was grey and dark. As dreary as it was, I felt grateful. Kate in Saskatchewan saw snow falling there! And there was I, watching all of that potential white stuff soak into the earth, leaving nothing to shovel!
Today saw the completion of the linen cupboard reorganization. Sets of sheets and pillowcases are organized according to size, queen or twin, and fabric type, percale or flannelette. Sheets and bedding for use in the trailer were set aside for the next few weeks until Iris is opened up for the summer. Odd sheets were stacked and stored away in the front bedroom closet, as they will not be used. I have collected odd sheets over the years, lots of them, when I could get them used for a few dollars. After visiting Value Village and seeing that they are charging $7 to $10 per worn sheet, I decided I had better hang on to the old ones I have, as they would cost a small fortune to replace.
Worldly Distractions
Weather
5°C
Date: 7:22 PM EST Tuesday 7 March 2017
Condition: Light Rain and Drizzle
Pressure: 101.0 kPa
Tendency: Falling
Temperature: 4.6°C
Dew point: 4.0°C
Humidity: 96%
Wind:S 21 gust 30 km/h
Visibility:10 km
Quote
“Never seem more learned than the people you are with. Wear your learning like a pocket watch and keep it hidden. Do not pull it out to count the hours, but give the time when you are asked.”
Lord Chesterfield
1694-1773
