The past semester was a whirlwind. It wasn’t until I finished my last exam, turned in my last paper, and graded the papers for the course I taught at Perkins in United Methodist History that I realized how much teaching a three hour course while taking a full Ph.D. course load had taken out of me. Over the past few weeks I have enjoyed time with my family, slept and relaxed.
Due to the end of the semester and catching up with myself afterward, I have taken an unexpected blogging break. I am looking forward to getting back into the regular practice of posting sometime next week.
Meanwhile, I would like to share a link to a story written by a Christian academic about the most difficult part of being a Christian academic. I was certainly convicted by it.
Kevin M. Watson 
Would like to chat with you sometime soon, Kevin. Please drop me an email.
Happy New Year!
Congratulations on your commitment, diligence, and completion of another very heavy load.
Blessings on you, your family, your walk with Christ, your ministry alongside of Christ and others.
The article was insightful and a good corrective.
Love you,
Dave
Here I am, the only one in the church building on NY’s Eve! The issue you describe may not be specific to academics! Perhaps many of us are inclined to withdraw into the activities we find most comfortable and fulfilling. Finding balance is likely one facet of denying ourselves, losing our lives, and finding them. The truth is that we have to work on that no matter what our positions–students, pastors, teachers, household managers, butchers, bakers or candlestick makers!
Glad you are getting a break. Enjoy your family and the holiday!