Those Sublime Moments

After hiking the Samaria Gorge, I spent the rest of the evening on the small rocky beach; cooling off in the water.  I later returned to my hotel to upload the video and photos I had taken. It was dusk when I finally had my dinner, over looking the sea. The hazy horizon presented a soft transition of hues from the sea to the sky. It was the perfect backdrop to reflect on my travels.  It’s those sublime moments that can open your eyes and reveal a deeper appreciation of life. 

I love traveling to all parts of the world but, I’ve said many times that you don’t need to travel to be a global citizen. Just as so many things that happen around the world can affect our lives in Dallas, what we do in our daily lives in Dallas can also empact people all around the world. I’ve been reminded of that each time I’ve had to show my Covid-19 vaccine card and wear my mask. 

Nor do you need to travel around the world to experience those sublime moments. The sun rises in the east and sets in the west no matter where you are.  You can find those moments when you take time to pause and step outside yourself.  It might be seen in the setting sun or heard in a distant conversation between a mother and child.  Whether it’s revealed though a glimpse of our humanity or Mother Nature, it allows us to find a deeper meaning to the numbered days of our lives. It makes me a better person when I pause to reflect, no matter where in the world I might be; even Dallas. 

Boarding Ferry to Samaria Gorge

I’m hoping on my way to the Samaria Gorge where I will hike as much as I can. I’ll post some pics will more information about the gorge. 

Here’s some video of the gorge:

Epidavros and Mycenae

Dating back to the 6th century B.C., people would visit Epidavros seeking healing for their ailments. The complex included a hotel with 160 rooms for visitors to stay as they hoped to be cured. Archeologists have found lots of medical tools used during their treatments. The complex also has a large theatre that is so well preserved it is still used today. 

Mycenae was one of the major Greek civilizations. Strategically placed, Mycenae was a defensive stronghold but also had good farmland and an ample supply of water.  The site also includes many graves where people were placed alongside some of their prized possessions that are now on display in the museum. The Tomb of Clytemnestra is also nearby. 

The Palamidi Fortress

1000 steps to get a selfie. 

The Ancient City of Delphi

I spent the afternoon and evening exploring the Delphi museum and archeological site.  I walked around the Temple of Apollo and several other structures. The Temple of Apollo dates back the the 4th century BC.

Managing Your Money Abroad

I’ve now been in Kalambaka for two days. Much of my time has been spent trekking Meteora but the small town of Kalambaka has some nice restaurants as well as scenic views. I took this picture while walking to the ATM for more cash. So. to get more house points, look closely at this picture an then tell me how the price of gas in Kalambaka compares to the price in Dallas?  How much would it cost to fill a 15 gallon tank at the current price of gas here in here in Kalambaka?

Just Kidding

Last Day in Athens

Three days in Athens is not enough so, I tried to see as much as I could on my last day.  Started off with a hike to the Temple of Zeus. 

Later in the afternoon I got on a bike to cover more ground. 

That was a very full day. Tomorrow I leave for Meteora. 

My New Friend Amillia

This afternoon I stopped for frappe at a Shedia operated cafe. Shedia is supported by the Planterra Foundation and is dedicated to supporting the homeless and immigrant population in Athens. While enjoying my frappe, I met Amillia.  She was very happy to tell me about many of the things Shedia is doing here in Athens. 

Where Philosophy and Mythology Dance to the Music of Tradition

I’ve now spent a full day in Athens.  So far, it has remained true to all my textbooks. I feel as though I’m walking through time; not just one block at a time but traveling centuries with each step I take. 

We’ve already talked about Many Greek Philosophers and all the stories in Greek Mythology in my classroom as well as this blog.  What I am finding very interesting is how the aesthetics of each seem to overlap rather seamlessly here. I think this would make a great discussion during our morning Lyceum. What exactly is philosophy?  What about Mythology?  What roles do they play within our society?  Do we dare bring religion into this discussion?  Have the meanings and purpose of each of these evolved in today’s society?

You guys know I’m always saying,”The most interesting art asks questions.”  These are indeed some questions to contemplate. I will have two more weeks to think about all of these things as I travel through Greece. In the meantime, I’m offering house points to anyone who responds to any of these questions. What’s your opinion?  I’m looking forward to hearing from you. 

Checked into Athens Hotel and Taking a Walk

Later in the evening:

The Adventures Has Begun

This has been a tough year for all of us. It has been a year and a half since my last trip to Patagonia.  I’ve been eagerly waiting for this trip. If you haven’t seen my previous posts, you’ll want to check them out to see what your other teachers have said about Greece. 

Right now I’m in Atlanta, GA waiting to board my flight to Athens. The first few weeks of my summer break have been very hectic as I had to travel to Indianapolis to take care of a couple of other tasks. That gave me very little time to prepare for this trip or even think too much about it. 

Now that I sit hear waiting for my connection, I’m able start anticipating this next great adventure. Just st thinking about walking the same paths as Aristotle, Socrates, and Plato has gotten me excited.  So stay tuned for another great adventure.