| the end of the sabbatical | | Date Created: Dec 19, 2006, 08:52 AM |
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Well, this is pretty much it. Today's the last day in the sabbatical routine -- in any sort of routine -- until January and getting stuck into the new term. I was going to write the next book during the sabbatical. But rather than just writing what I felt like writing, I wanted to work with my editor and publisher to see if I could merge my unusual and idiosyncratic interests with what they think Christian bookbuyers across the English-speaking world are looking for. Giving that a serious shot consumed the bulk of the sabbatical, and no one is sure whether I've 'got it' yet or not.
I think I'd make the same decisions again. It seems to me hard to fault a decision to submit yourself to people who you believe know better than you do. That doesn't make a cold December morning -- the end of the sabbatical -- any less discouraging and depressing.
I've written a lot of words this sabbatical, on experimental subjects and in experimental forms, including some fiction. Virtually none of it is publishable. But I've learned a lot. I did a lot of speaking. I saw two of my tutees get their PhDs. I did a reasonable job teaching the visiting students from Houghton College. I've written some articles for publication. I had some good spells on the blog. I finally got my website annex up and running. Biggest personal accomplishment was probably being organized and consistent enough to initiate and carry through the podcast of Jesus Asked. It's a big deal for me to manage to keep ahead of schedule with the recording and on schedule with the publication of weekly episodes. It's run from early August all the way to this week's final episode that I did the finishing XML programming for before breakfast today. It's been a slog but a thrill to be able to give it away!
Anyway; it's time for Christmas break. I doubt I'll be posting on the blog till second week in January or so. But I hope all you who read this have a great Christmas. Bye for now. |
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