Day 2 - 311 -- Is it really new?

Today was much more productive than yesterday, at least in terms of paid work tasks. Two major items were moved into a draft format. One dealt with a revision of a course to integrate topics at both an introductory and an advanced level -- so that actually is two courses. Each revision of existing courses aims to update content to current practices. Challenging. The draft needs a fair bit of tightening before a meeting later this week. The second task is still in my head. I tend to write through things in my head before it comes out through my fingers, so things are generally less drafty when they hit the screen or paper.  This one deals with a conference presentation abstract about why history should be part of professional education and training. It is based on research that has been underway to understand and describe the evolution of dietetics as it is currently practiced.

Thinking through the two major work tasks, led me to a place of history repeating itself. Experience has shown me that schools of thought seem to be somewhat repetitive. Every few years the approach to policy and practice seems to come full circle. While this may mean that there is little original thought at play, it may also mean that while going 'round and 'round that we actually are completing a spiral. Each revolution moves us upwards, perhaps adding some new thought to an old philosophy or practice -- thus, building as we go rather than simply mimicking a dog chasing its tail. Though, failing to understand the past may lead to simply repeating the same errors over and over and expecting new results. Wasn't it Einstein that used that concept as the definition of insanity? <smile> For these reasons, I've felt the story of how we got where we are today informs the course we chart for our future.

I will admit to hearing only one song today -- and during my sleep last night while 'writing' the projects. Many people have covered this, though I find this singer's rendition particularly fun. Her younger voice playfully dealt with the rhythms and melody. Enjoy!

Everything Old is New Again -- Anne Murray