Speaking of research, that’s been one of my favorite things about Foster’s Celebration of Discipline. He tests out the classical spiritual disciplines, and watches to see what effect they have on himself and the world. Where they don’t work, he tries them a different way. If he prays one way, and nothing changes, then he changes how he’s praying. He’s not trying to figure out the right combination to manipulate God (something he warns against), rather he’s letting God teach him through the process, and working out in the everyday of life what is often rendered ascetic and esoteric.

I only ate one meal all day yesterday, but it was at Cracker Barrel, so my caloric intake was about the same as any other day. It’s called “cracker barrel” because if you eat there often, that becomes your body type. But where else can I can pick up some old timey candy (clove gum was yesterday’s treat), play checkers, look at faux memorabilia from products that never existed, browse nicknacks that nobody needs, and eat fried pork chops with eggs?

If things go well, I’ll be in LA, offloading the Uhaul today after lunch. Thanks for all of your prayers.