The amazing – and unforeseen – effects of rising temperatures in Harbin:
1.For the first time in over six months, we've seen precipitation other than snowfall. The sidewalks are wet. Outside, it's cool and damp. I'm still waiting on a major rainstorm. Last year, it came in April.
2.I haven't worn thermal underwear in almost a week.
3.My hair is actually showing signs of slight curl from the humidity in the air.
4.My shoe variety has expanded past the essential summit boot. I'm now wearing regular boots that are not manufactured for Himalayan Sherpas. While I certainly look more feminine this week, my calves are paying the price for the reduction in tread.
5.Higher temperatures mean that Spring is imminent. And Spring means an Easter lesson (as a cultural exercise). And an Easter lesson is such a marvelous opportunity to watch students' faces react to the greatest love story ever told.
Additionally, the lesson is sprinkled with little moments in which their perspective refreshes my own. Today, for example, I said, “Why do you suppose that John outran Peter to get to the empty tomb, knowing that it was Peter who was likely the athlete of the group?” My two favorite responses were, “Maybe Peter tripped,” and, “Maybe John knew the fastest way to get there.” See how we never think about things like that?
