Lise's Lens: October 17, 2024
This week I reflect on the wonder of libraries, the inauguration of Mexico's "presidenta," and the incredible diligence of termites.
WHAT I’M READING
I was fascinated by
this article in The New York Times about the world’s oldest termite mound. Say what you will about Termites (they aren’t exactly the most beloved creatures), but the way they are able to build such complex structures is nothing short of remarkable. There is a colony in Namaqualand that dates back 34,000 years! I think this serves as a nice metaphor for what can happen when members of a community capitalize on their strengths, work together, and put time and care into their living space.
WHAT I’M THINKING/TALKING ABOUT
I’m always looking for an excuse to wander through CSW’s library. I’ll often go in there for no specific reason except to soak in the vibe. It helps that it’s located right across from my office — a dream for someone who loves books and reading as much as I do. I admire how libraries have modernized and how responsive many of them have been to change. Check out what
this library in Toledo has done, for example! In my next life, I’d love to be a great librarian! In the meantime, I continue to be grateful for our CSW librarian Jenna, and Sharon, her assistant. Go libraries and librarians! My next visit to NYC will include the JP Morgan Library because of this
incredible exhibit it is having.
WHAT I'M WATCHING/LISTENING TO
I don’t have an account on Tiktok, but someone shared with me
this incredible clip that was circulating on Tiktok highlighting the inauguration of the new “Presidenta” of Mexico. Though I am not fully versed in current Mexican politics, I am impressed by what I know of the Mayor of Mexico DF, now Presidenta of Mexico, el pais. What struck me with this video was the power of the moment, of the gifts that were being both handed and transferred physically and spiritually by the indigenous people who were part of the ceremony. In a country (and continent), where the indigenous populations have suffered so much and have been betrayed so often, I marvel at their resilience and admire their ability to continue to be brave and true to their beliefs. I am looking forward to my visit to Mexico in November and I hope to take time to appreciate the momentous occasion this new presidency presents.
WHAT CAUGHT MY EYE
On Tuesday, our ninth and tenth graders enjoyed a day off campus visiting the Institute of Contemporary Art, hiking Mt. Wachusett, or exploring Salem and its famed witch museum! Here's a photo of our students out at Wachusett. They had great weather!