…And the soul felt its worth

O holy night, the stars are brightly shining, It is the night of the dear Savior's birth. Long lay the world in sin and error pining 'Til he appeared and the soul felt its worth. from "O Holy Night", words by poet Placide Cappeau, music by Adolphe Adam It's true! I can attest to it. … Continue reading …And the soul felt its worth

Review of Barriers Burned Away; remembering the1871 Chicago Fire

A visit to Chicago not long after the Chicago Fire of October 8, 1871--151 years ago today--touched the heart of the author, Edward Payson Roe, and inspired him to write this novel, published in 1872. Diorama of 1871 Chicago Fire - Chicago History Museum, Lincoln Park, Chicago, Illinois He seems to have asked himself: How … Continue reading Review of Barriers Burned Away; remembering the1871 Chicago Fire

Gesta Romanorum: A unique glimpse into history

Gesta Romanorum is Latin for "Deeds of the Romans", which makes it sound like this book is a narration of the early culture of Rome, its history and battles. However, it is actually a Latin compilation of morality stories believed to be written approximately at the end of the 13th century. There are 181 stories. … Continue reading Gesta Romanorum: A unique glimpse into history

Telling Stories without the Written Word

We love stories, and I would guess that most of the time we are reading stories, or watching them unfold visually in a movie. But yesterday I experienced something new and surprisingly enjoyable, a storytelling performance! The Mary B. Martin Storytelling Hall in Jonesborough, Tennessee - storytelling.net Storytelling, according to one definition, is the social … Continue reading Telling Stories without the Written Word