I returned from a trip to Northern Germany Saturday night. It was a fun three days of travel of exploration. I could write everything we did, but I will highlight the best moments. Thursday night in Hamburg, we had a "blind" dinner. We were split into groups of 8-10 and led into a dark room after walking through scenarios like a park. So, while walking I could hear birds chirping and feel like I'm walking on grass, etc. It took about five minutes to walk into the dining room and sit at the table. There, we enjoyed our three course dinner in the dark; all told, it was about three hours! Imagine trying to use silverware, pour water, find my food in the dark. It's crazy. It wasn't bad for the first half or so, but after awhile, my hours hurt. Imagine the strain looking all around and seeing nothing but darkness. The point of this was to feel what it is like to be blind. I should mention that our waiters were blind. But overall, it was a good learning experience, but way too long.

Friday in Hamburg, we met with a member of that parliament, an assistant to an MP, and we toured the parliament itself. The building is incredible; the art, architecture, etc. is magnificent. We had a tour of the city itself but it was not very good. Our leader was a little strange and I didn't see too much worthwhile. Hamburg was not that impressive, but I hope it's because I didn't see enough (I was only there for less than a day). I wish I could have seen more old Hamburg and learn my history. The meetings with the parliament people were informative, however. We discussed immigration and integration, issues concerning Denmark too.

Saturday we toured some castles in Denmark which were okay. A lot of the day was on the bus traveling home. It was a nice trip outside of Copenhagen and I'm glad I got to Germany! There were about 30 students and I had fun with the group.

This week is class and studying. Thursday is volunteer work with KIK. Friday night I am leaving for Bornholm, a small Danish island south of Sweden, for a weekend bike trip. Should be fun!

Mass at Sakramentskirken was wonderful again. The priest's homilies are very good and they really hit the core of the readings.

Here's to a good week!

- TAD

Check out this video

"How Great is Our God" by Chris Tomlin

A nature video to Tomlin's song. It's worth a look.