Monthly Archives: October 2006

A tyrant must put on the appearance of uncommon devotion to religion. Subjects are less apprehensive of illegal treatment from a ruler whom they consider god-fearing and pious. On the other hand, they do less easily move against him, believing … Continue reading →

Suzdal, a small town (13,000 people) about 200 kilometers east of Moscow, has existed for at least a thousand years. Erstwhile residents include Ivan the Terrible, banished wives and children of Tsars and other rulers inconvenienced by the presence of … Continue reading →

Today in the class I’ve been teaching on the Theology of Baptism at Moscow Theological Seminary we went over a quiz I gave at the end of last week. I had looked over the students’ efforts beforehand. I saw that … Continue reading →

Smoking has become less and less socially acceptable in the U.S. Fewer and fewer public places allow it. Many restaurants are now completely non-smoking. Those who persist in the habit are increasingly made to feel like pariahs, forced into special … Continue reading →

The young woman sitting near me on the subway has a pretty face, milk-white skin, reddish hair pulled back neatly. She is well-groomed and her clothing neat. I notice these things because they contrast so with the rest of her. … Continue reading →