Shamelessly, I’m beginning this post with a plug for a rather terrific film I had the great pleasure to see last night. An Education was as dramatic as it was comedic, carefree as it was poignant. Carey Mulligan is certainly going places, Rosamund Pike is surprisingly hilarious, and I would still follow Emma Thompson to the moon. In many ways, I believe that An Education is this year’s cautionary yet inspiring coming-of-age story, reminiscent of Taken. My very English chum and I watched this lovely film in a very swanky cinema house - which is a far cry from a movie theater, let me tell you! I can’t say if my experience was indicative of all British cinemas or just luck, but the foyer totally housed a plush, maroon chaise lounge which was illuminated by an ornate chandelier. Posh, right?
Another event which I enjoyed in shameless fashion was an evening at 1 Golf Place, also a pub. That’s right - I completed the third item on my list. Funny enough, the event I attended was put on by the Christian Union (I hope my conservative friends back home aren’t too offended!) and was one in a series of Mission Week Pub Tours. Baptists certainly look a little different in Scotland! There’s nothing like sitting your Bible down next to a half-pint of Guinness.
I should say that, true to my vow, I did not purchase myself a drink. Two of my friends came along and I purchased their drinks as a ‘thank you’; my kindred spirit (remember the Highwayman story?) treated me in return. Skirting the law, I know, but still legal. For the record, after about two sips of the draught I felt like I’d just swallowed a hunk of plywood which had been soaked in Pine-Sol so I really don’t think there’s any fear of me becoming addicted to the stuff. Even entering a bar, let alone buying a drink, is an occasion which would not have happened in the States – so I was pretty tickled to engage in a true cultural experience. Our table played a quick game of pub Pictionary and, if I’m allowed to brag, my awesome rendition of the FS Charity Fashion Show won us a free round! I had lemonade.
Of course, the real reason we were all assembled at the pub was to hear a talk made by one of the Christian Union members. Tonight’s topic was forgiveness and the speaker, though soft spoken, was totally captivating. If only you all were here to see the infectious energy and enthusiasm my peers have for sharing their faith, the drive and motivation they invest in putting on these massive events. Utterly inspiring, and a quality I hope to take back home.
Tomorrow I’ve got a tutorial at noon followed by a New Hall event we’ve dubbed Grill a Christian, which will probably be as intimidating as it sounds! Our Bible Study group has been praying for a non-combative, open, and appreciative audience. Off to bed now, thanks for reading!
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