Eastern vs. Western Teaching and the Via Del Rosa

Not too much to report here, as I have recently been overwhelmed with schoolwork. One thing that you may not know is that Professors who are from the east teach and operate their class in a far different manner than the western Professors I have known and loved for so many years. Let me give you an example. Most Professors in the west give you a detailed syllabus and schedule (bless their hearts), but out here it is a whole different ballgame. About half of my Professors are from the Middle East and they conduct class far differently. There is no syllabus and no assigned reading. Instead they will just teach the whole class and if they mention a book or person, they automatically expect you to go to the library and read about them after class. Kind of intense, I agree. This style doesn't gel well with my overanalytical, overanxious personality...how much do I read? What do I read? What if its not right? Those of you who know me best can already imagine the anxiousness, I'm sure.

Last night I had my first opportunity to walk down the Via Del Rosa. This is the path many scholars believe that Christ took through the city en route to the crucifixion site (now the Church of the Holy Sepulchre). This was my first time on the Via Del Rosa, as my previous trips there were along a different route. It is quite a special thing to be able to walk down that path..can't really describe it. I was especially struck by one picture along the route that is carved in a stone wall. It is a carving of Christ falling down under the weight of the cross as he was attempting to carry it along this route many years ago. This city is just a constant reminder of his sacrifice so many years ago. As one of my friends put it, "you cannot go to the land of the Bible and come back unchanged."