Tag Archives: Deborah Yegerlehner

David’s Diary – February 1, 1971

Monday, 1 February 1971

[Top panel: NT reading: Mark 13; OT reading: Ezekiel 1]

This was the big day. Up shortly before 8:00—feeling perfectly lousy. I had gone to bed last night about 1:00—but couldn’t get to sleep. Shortly before 2:00 I came downstairs to sleep. I certainly didn’t get much more than 5 hours sleep. Shaved after eating—dressed, prepared to leave. Caught the 9:20 train. Reviewed material, notes, all the way into Boston. I arrived at BU just about 11:10. I reviewed some more, plus read some brief articles. Then about 12:30 I went to the refectory and had lunch. Then at 1:00 I picked up the test. Had to write on four questions out of five. #1 on the documentary hypothesis. #2 on von Rad’s contributions to Deuteronomy; #3 on Ginsberg’s approach to Daniel; #4 on Lindblom’s treatment of ecstacy among the prophets. I took the full 4 hours which they allowed me, (instead of just 3 as is usually the case). It was a very fair exam—since largely these were the areas where my restudy had been directed. As soon as I finished the exam I left BU—caught the 5:50 train home. The clock of the Congregational church struck 7:00 just as I was walking home. Had supper. At about 7:30 Bonnie left for community chorus rehearsal—so I was left with Debbie for the evening. I was drained. Watched TV; paced the floor—the wind-down takes time. Bathed about 11:00; washed my filthy hair—had to sit under the dryer. OBLO c. 12:45.

Tuesday, 2 February 1971

[Top panel: NT reading: Mark 14; OT: Ezekiel 2]

Following the pattern of the last few nights, I wasn’t able to get to sleep. So I got up and read a while—finally about 2:30—went back to bed—downstairs, to avoid waking Bonnie. We were awakened about 8:30 by the phone. We didn’t get to it in time—I didn’t even try. Then about 9:00 it rang again—Terry Thomason, calling from Boston, returning Bonnie’s call (yesterday)—she had questions to ask him about tax forms. About 9:30 we had breakfast. In the morning I did some straightening in my study, shaved, wrote my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers. About 11:30 I went to the Post office, then to the building center—bought the materials to build the doll house for Debbie. Home about noon, ate lunch; then at 12:30 picked up Virginia. She stayed with Debbie while I took Bonnie to work, then made some calls: on Barbara Olson and her father Joseph Tarvis—who is elderly and ill. Also saw Mary Jane—for whom I’m to fill out a recommendation form. From there I went to see Charles O’Reilly—whose wife I buried just a few days ago. We had a very nice visit—he appears to be well read—after discussing his own personal adjustments, the conversation wandered into politics—we think very much alike. Went to see Rip Hannibal briefly. Home about 3:30. Prepared for C.O.C.U. group tonight; prepared supper. Read I.F. Stone. Jim Bussey was with us for supper; he brought Bonnie home from the hospital. He left about 7:00. C.O.C.U. 7:30–9:30—small group. Then relaxed, read. Bathed OBLO midnight.

Wednesday, 3 February 1971

[Top panel: NT: Mark 15-16; Ezekiel 3]

Up before 9:30 after Θ. After having breakfast I worked at my desk—a big backlog of papers. Bonnie went off with Carol Lewis to do some shopping—Debbie stayed here with me—watched Sesame Street—a regular morning routine. Late in the morning I shaved—just about noon I prepared an article for the Gloucester Daily Times re: Mac White’s visit this Sunday. Bonnie got home before 12:30. We had lunch, then I headed for Gloucester. Got to Jim’s shortly after 1:00. John Dunnach was supposed to arrive for a meeting re: arranging this Sunday’s Annual Charge Conference. He never showed up. But Merle Steva (the Baptist minister in Gloucester who’s shortly moving to Colorado) was there teaching Jim how to smoke a pipe! He stayed most of the hour and we had a nice chat, but then after he left Jim and I did some planning. I went from there to the Times office, then stopped in Gloucester to leave some slides off at the camera shop to be made into prints. Headed home, tended to getting the proposed budget mimeographed for the Board meeting tonight. Relaxed briefly before preparing supper. After supper went down to the church, chatted with the boys who have the rock band—several of the older folks object to their running up the heat bill. Shortly after I got home Dr. Beck called to say that I’d passed the exam! Administrative Board 7:30–9:30. Called Beck to arrange an appointment. Puttered in study. Straightened up.

David’s Diary, 3 February 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/12/04/davids-diary-february-1-1971/

David’s Diary – January 29, 1971

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Friday, 29 January 1971

Up about 9:30 after Θ. Bonnie has been saying of late that she can feel the baby moving. This morning she placed my hand on her abdomen and I felt it to[o]—for the first time—right in the palm of my hand. Had breakfast as soon as I got up, then got to work reading: in Ginsberg. Finished before noon. Then began rereading, from start to finish, the whole of Daniel. Got two chapters done when we stopped for lunch. After eating Debbie played in her room, Bonnie left for work. I continued reading in Daniel. Dozed briefly in the chair. Finished Daniel mid-afternoon, then began reading Eissfeldts section on the book. Didn’t get this finished before Bonnie arrived home. We had supper. Then I had about 45 minutes to read before the news. Finished Eissfeldt on Daniel, turned to Weiser’s brief treatment of same. 6:30–7:30 watched CBS news, etc. Then back to the reading—this time D.W. Thomas’ article in OT + Modern Study on textual criticism. I then turned to reviewing Arthur Jeffrey’s articles in IB Vol 1 on Canon and text of OT. I compiled a list of the witnesses to the canon which he gives—such was asked on the first exam on Oct 1. Stopped at 9:30 to watch The Odd Couple. After this was over I returned to Jeffrey’s article, and this occupied me for the rest of the evening. I also compiled a study schedule for the next two days, reviewing the major areas that I’ve been studying for the last few months. OT reading: Daniel; NT: Mark 10-11. no bath; OBLO c. 12:30.

Saturday, 30 January 1971

[Top panel: NT reading Mark 12]

Had trouble getting to sleep last night—was awake off and on—consequently had trouble making it out of bed—wasn’t up til about 9:30. Shaved—two days worth—also: the can of shave cream which I started last July finally gave out! Had breakfast. Then when the mail came—was occupied with a letter—finally—from Gary Myers, and I.F. Stone’s Bi-Weekly. Also I used what was left of the morning to sift through all the papers on my desk and locate study notes—everything else I stacked in one huge pile. Finally before noon I began reading the article in OT + Modern Study on Wisdom. I was called to lunch before I got very far in this, so finished it after eating. Late in the afternoon the Lewises brought Chris over, they went for a drive with friends. I devoted most of my afternoon to reviewing Deuteronomy, i.e., Wright’s article in the IB and von Rad’s Studies in D, which I began before getting supper. Then the early part of the evening I spent with it. From 8:00 to 9:00 I prepared the bulletins for tomorrows service. I have spent an absolute minimum of time this weekend on church. At 9:00 I turned to Wisdom again, ie., read Blank’s article on Wisdom in IDB, then his article on Proverbs. Then bathed. Began review of Daniel material—D.N. Freedman’s brief article on Prayer of Nabonidus, Jeffrey’s Intro in IB, then Eissfeldts section in his Intro. But I ran out of steam before taking up that monster Ginsberg—it’ll have to be squeezed in sometime tomorrow. OBLO c. 12:50.

Sunday, 31 January 1971

[NT reading—count my ss lesson! Mark 6]

Up shortly after 8:00—feeling lousy. My night again was a bad one—I’m just too worked up about this exam. Shaved, had breakfast, prepared to greet my class: 4 girls came—we read Mark 6 and part of 7. Went to the church about 10:30 (Bonnie substitute taught in the Joint Sunday School this morning). Only about 25 in church—colds and flu seem to have taken their toll. I preached a sermon that I’d grabbed out of the file earlier in the week—on fear. My delivery wasn’t too hot—I was just so weary. I came home as soon as the service was over—began fixing lunch. I needed some rest. Stretched out, but sleep didn’t come. Θ. Got back to studying about 2:00. Allowed myself one distraction. Watched the launch of Apollo 14 to the moon about 4 o’clock. Before the launch I had read the article on the historical books in OTMS, and reviewed Daniel after the launch and before supper. Then after eating I worked on several areas which took the whole evening: Prophets, Pentateuchal criticism, then Psalms. It’s a very discouraging and frustrating process. The material is so massive, there’s so much I don’t know. Thus it’s also frightening [1] and depressing—because there are so many legitimate questions that I would be at a loss to answer. I’m no more optimistic about passing this exam [than] I was the first—although I do think I am better prepared in some areas. I bathed about 11:30, but then got back to reviewing on Psalms. Finally gave up about 1:10.

[1] No wonder I preached on fear that morning!

David’s diary, 31 January 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/12/03/davids-diary-january-29-1971/

David’s Diary – January 25, 1971

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Monday, 25 January 1971

Up about 9:15. Had breakfast, shaved. Wrote my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers. Did a little desk work. The mail man arrived with a post card from Gary Myers! Finally some response out of him—he’s sick, and as soon as he’s well will write more. The post card was a thick one—heavier than cardboard, with a picture of Mae West, circa 1934! I had mentioned her in my letter to him. I went to the P.O., stopped briefly at the church, came home, read in C.O.C.U. Plan of Union until noon—got the assignment read for tonight. We then had lunch. Bonnie left for work, Debbie went to her room. She dragged out a bag full of clothes that Bonnie has never put on her, and spent the afternoon trying on clothes—had a real ball. [1] At one point I also built a house for her. She emptied all of the blocks out onto the floor, and we put them all onto the building. I worked on the prophets part of the afternoon, then turned to Qumran. I was occupied with [it], Cross and Milik, until supper. I had supper ready when Bonnie got home. We ate, relaxed, watched CBS news, etc, prepared to greet to C.O.C.U. group, which arrived about 7:30. It was over by 9:30. Bonnie had gone to Community Chorus Rehearsal for the evening. I studied until she got home and after—read Micah. Then did my daily scripture reading: NT I John 4-5, II John, III John; OT: Ezra 1 + 2—names, names, names! No bath. Began reading in Nielsen on Micah 4-5. OBLO , c. 12:30.

Tuesday, 26 January 1971

Up about 9:30. Had breakfast, turned to reading—in Nielsen’s section on Micah—continued my reading from last night. When I finished this I turned to reviewing Zephaniah. We had lunch at noon, Bonnie left for work, Debbie went to play in her room. I shaved, had a phone conversation with Sarah Orne—then finally got to studying—finished up with Zephaniah. Then turned to reading further on Qumran, i.e., in Milik’s little book and Frank Cross’ Ancient Library. These two volumes occupied me until it was time to be putting supper together. Read through the paper when it came. Bonnie arrived home, we had supper. 6:00-6:30 read in Milik, then watched CBS news. Debbie knows who Walter Cronkite is. We’ve been trying to acquaint her with “Walter.” She also knows “Soupy” [2]—on What’s My Line? CBS news reported renewed attempts by the military to get around Congress’ ban on ground troops in Cambodia. I prepared for the meeting at 8:00: Finance Committee: Kay Patriquin, Roger Smith, Homer Orne, Jean Crowell, Jack Wicky, Sydney Gamage were in attendance. No raise in salary—but the church will be assuming all of the medical insurance bill that we pay monthly—so in effect a raise of over $100—big deal! After the meeting was over (c.10:00)—I had to push Jean Crowell out of the icy driveway—studied. Read Nahum—and commentaries. Read NT: Jude; OT: Ezra 3 + 4; bathed OBLO c. 12:30. Θ

Wednesday, 27 January 1971

Up by about 9:30. Had breakfast. Turned to reading in Habakkuk and commentaries. When the mail came I spent some time looking through Newsweek. Shaved before having lunch at noon. After eating I returned to reading. Bonnie went shopping about 2:00 while I read—Debbie was playing in her room. After finishing the review of Habakkuk I turned to reading in Milik’s book on Qumran. Bonnie got home about 4:00—at which time I had to go to Ornes. The statistical reports for 1970 have to be in by the 31^st, so I had to take time to get them filled out. I returned home shortly after 5:00. Fixed supper. Relaxed. Just as we were preparing for supper we discovered that the female guppy had delivered: we have 6 live babies. We transferred the mother back to the main tank—immediately the babies came out of hiding. After supper watched CBS news, etc. Then turned again to studying after doing some phone calling that had to be done. This time I began work on Daniel—rereading Jeffrey’s introduction in the IB. As the date for the retake of the exam approaches I have mixed feelings—fear, dread, despair because of the mass of the material—yet at times I have high hopes that I’ll be able to pass. I now feel confident that I could have passed the exact same exam that I took on Oct 1—but the whole new set of questions is another story! Bathed about 11:30. NT reading: Mk 6-8; OT: Hab; Joel; OBLO c. 12:30.

Thursday, 28 January 1971

[Top panel: called Dr. Beck]

Up shortly after 9:00. After breakfast I had to tend to some church business. I had to prepare the final copies of 3 reports to be sent to the conference—also send out letters to members of the administrative board re: meeting next week and annual meeting. This occupied me til almost noon. Then shaved; we had our lunch. After eating I went to the Post Office to mail my morning’s work, then went to Richdales for milk. When I got back Bonnie and Debbie left—they went to see Carol Lewis. Sue Lee was also joining the party with daughter Diane. I began working on Review—rereading for the most part—Ginsberg book on Daniel. Shortly after 2:00 Margaret Reilley arrived, as planned, to help me with a French article by Milik on Prayer of Nabonidus found in Cave 4. We—rather she—translated the article aloud. We worked through it together. When she left about 3:30 I returned to work on Ginsberg. Bonnie and Debbie arrived home—and soon both of them settled to napping or relaxing. I continued with Ginsberg until about 5:15. Then we put supper together. Finished by about 6:30. Watched CBS news, etc. Then I studied for an hour before Ironside, after which I returned to Daniel. During the noon hour today I called Dr. Beck at BU—to confirm that I’m planning to take the exam Monday. He said it was all ready. I’ll be allowed 4 hours instead of 3. Must write on #1—then 4 out of 5. I’m getting more and more nervous! Worked on Ginsberg til about 11:30. Relaxed, bathed: OT reading: [???] 1,2,5,7,etc.; MT: Mark 9; OBLO 12:35

[1] The earliest record of a strong interest in costumes!

[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soupy_Sales

David’s diary, 28 January 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/12/02/davids-diary-january-25-1971/

David’s Diary – January 21, 1971

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Thursday, 21 January 1971

Up at 9:00. Had breakfast, shaved. My NT reading was I Peter 1-2; OT: Judges 1-5. I was only very briefly occupied with the mail when it arrived. I had mailed the letter to Gary Myers; the return receipt came back today—not his signature, however. I hope he got the letter. Had lunch during the noon hour. For most of the afternoon Bonnie and Debbie were napping—or reading (Bonnie said she napped about an hour.) I made decent progress on my reading. I finished Eissfeldt’s article in OT and Modern Study. Then began a review of Lindblom, i.e., rereading the section on the prophetic literature. I got as far as Amos by supper time. I.E., I am trying to read the text as I go along. I read through the paper before working on supper. Had a very simple supper. 6:00-6:30 read in Amos. 6:30-7:00 CBS news. Senator Kennedy was defeated for Sen. Dem. Whip—regarded as a definite set-back for any presidential try in 72. CBS news says that Nixon + Co. are very happy. But so is Muske, no doubt. But why should Nixon be so happy at the prospect of facing Muske—who already leads him in the polls and seems to have so much more dignity, stature and decency? After TV began working seriously in Hosea. 8:30–9:30 as usual watched Ironside. 9:30–11:00 returned to studying—finished Hosea, then turned to Lindblom’s section on Isaiah; read closely chapters 6–9:7. This was the day I transferred the pregnant guppy to separate bowl. Bathed about 11:30. OBLO c. midnight.

Friday, 22 January 1971

Up about 9:00. Shaved, had breakfast—turned to desk work. I had to get 10 post cards ready to send out to the members of the Monday evening C.O.C.U. group—notifying them that the meeting will be here. Then I wrote the letter to the Chaplain aboard the U.SS. Wasp re: the Favreau family situation. When all of this was done I went to the P.O. Saw Margaret Reilley, had a brief chat. Almost noon when I got home, but I started typing a stencil on the Planned Parenthood bulletin insert; Bonnie called me to lunch. We ate, Bonnie left for work, Debbie went to her room for playing and napping. I did some phone calling (Dunnach + Bussey), finished the mimeo work on the bulletin insert. Also I ran off copies of the new Parish News service stencil. About 3 o’clock I began serious work on the sermon. About 4:00 I put the meatloaf in the oven, then worked on the sermon until about 5:00. We ate as soon as Bonnie got home. 6:00-6:30 looked at the paper 6:30-:00 CBS news, etc. 7:30–9:00 I did my daily scripture reading: I Peter 3-5, Judges 6-8, worked more on the sermon. 9 o’clock—Nixon’s State of the Union address. A collection of banalities. I worked on the PP/WP bulletin inserts—after the address we listened to analysis on 5 and 2 while I finished work on the inserts. Then I did more work on the sermon; finished the very rough draft. Bathed about 11:30. OBLO c. midnight Θ.

Saturday, 23 January 1971

Not up until late—about 9:30. Had breakfast, shaved. During the morning that was left I transcribed the sermon—about the first half of it—then we had lunch. Then after eating I returned to working on the sermon. When this was completed I turned to working on the bulletins—when I finished this, I went out on a call—to Hannibals. Rip seems very eager to get back into the swing of life. He’s planning to come to the next administrative Board meeting—3 years ago I wouldn’t even have believed I’d ever see the Hannibals in church—but now Rip comes regularly. After leaving Hannibals I went to Gloucester—I went to Dunnachs—left off the PP/WP bulletin inserts. Then I dropped off the inserts for Wesley at Busseys—Jim was out; it was this morning that Becky left—i.e., beginning their move to Arizona. I told Bonnie she wouldn’t see Becky Bussey again until after she’s 40. Not at all impossible—Arizona is pretty far away. I got home about 5 o’clock. Bonnie had supper just about ready. We ate—relaxed. I prepared the service, practiced the sermon. Then I iced the cake Bonnie had baked. After this I finally worked up the ambition to do my daily scripture reading: II Peter (all); Judges 9-12. Then I turned to preparing my Sunday School lesson—i.e., read in Mark—I am struck by the heavy emphasis on demons in Mark; bathed about 11:30. Read in bed, Judges 13-18 OBLO c. 12:20.

Sunday, 24 January 1971

Up about 8:15. Shaved, had breakfast, practiced sermon. My Sunday school class arrived about on time: 4 in attendance. I got to the church about 10:40. Preached on: “Adding Dynamic to Decent”—average sized congregation. We got home about 12:40. Vicky told us that Jerry Lewis had called, so Bonnie returned the call. They wanted to come get the bed, i.e., the twin bed which Debbie has been using, which they loaned to us a long time ago. They decided to come around 5:00. We decided while we were having lunch to invite them for supper. I called them early in the afternoon and that was agreeable with them. 1:30–2:30 I relaxed—tried to doze. At 2:30 picked up Winnie + Kay, we went to the Den-Mar for the service—3:00 to 3:30. Saw Esther Longley before it started. Home by 4:00. Got some reading done (my daily NT reading: I John 1-3) but helped prepare supper. The Lewises arrived about 5:00. I went with Jerry to Bussey’s—where we picked up the crib which the Lewises were buying and the dressing table which we bought. Came home, had supper—after which relaxed. About 8:00 I helped Jerry take their bed home. When we got back we saw our Xmas 1970 movie—since Jerry had brought their projector along. After they left I did some reading (OT: Judges 19-21) but was pretty droopy. Bathed before 10:20. OBLO c. 11 o’clock Θ.

David’s diary, 24 January 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/30/davids-diary-january-21-1971/

David’s Diary – January 17, 1971

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Sunday, 17 January 1971

Up at 8:15. Shaved, had breakfast, practiced the sermon. Prepared to greet my class—only 3—we continued reading in Mark. I got to the church about 10:45. Not a very good turnout—28. Preached on “God the Creator, God the Redeemer.” When we got home we had lunch. My cold still is leaving me fatigued, so I was resigned to resting for the afternoon. I actually went to bed. After Debbie was put down for a nap Bonnie joined me. Θ. About 3:15 we began preparing to leave for Gloucester—for the Busseys’ farewell party. Got there just at 4:00. Quite a large turnout. Jim has been pretty well liked—and the people and Wesley genuinely regret to see him go—especially since they now have to share a pastor with Riverdale. I was asked to speak briefly, and I made a few remarks. After the program was over we stuffed ourselves—so there was no need to fix supper at home. We came home around six. Collapsed. Relaxed—listened to the Boston Pops with headphones. Bonnie went upstairs and stretched out. I did some necessary phone calling, a little reading (Hebrews 11), but then stretched out myself. Actually fell asleep I believe. About 8:00 we prepared to go to Patriquins. Got there about 8:20. We saw movies—several of Drue’s + Cheyrl’s—2 of ours—the very first roll that we ever took—and the most recent. Also showed several boxes of slides. Then sat around enjoying “mug-ups”—for the evening; came home shortly after 11:00; relaxed, read Joshua 1 + 2; OBLO 12:05.

Monday, 18 January 1971

Up at 9:10. Had breakfast—desk work, some phone calls, wrote my Eagle article, wrote my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers. About 11:15 I shaved, then set off on my errands—i.e., to the P.O. and the Eagle office. Got back home just at 12 o’clock. We fixed lunch. I had an appointment in the afternoon to see Charles O’Reilly—whose wife died last week. Just as lunch was over, he appeared at the door. He was on his way to Maine with his brother, and wanted to tell me this—we’ll have a talk when he gets back. He also gave me a check for $25. I told him that Mr. Mackey had already paid me—but he knew this and wanted me to have more anyway. He was here only a few minutes. About 12:45 Bonnie and Debbie and I left here. We had arranged for Debbie to stay with Virginia and Amy—and went ahead with this plan even though my appointment with Mr. O’Reilly was cancelled. I took Bonnie on to work after we left Debbie off, then came back home. My cold is still plaguing me—so I napped a brief while. Then did some reading: Heb 12-13; Joshua 3-9. Then prepared to leave—had to be at A.G. Hospt. (Children + Family Center) at 4 o’clock—met with John Stewart and Mrs. Favreau—whose husband wants a divorce. This was all concluded about 5:15—Bonnie + I went home, picked up Debbie on the way. Had supper, watched CBS news. 7:30–9:30—I was at St. Mary’s church leading C.O.C.U. group. Relaxed, had a snack when I got home; had a nice long leisurely bath. Read Joshua 10. OBLO midnight.

Tuesday, 19 January 1971

Up about 8:30. Had breakfast, shaved, arrived at Dr. Clapp’s office at 9:15—the front top part of the frames of my glass[es] broke last Friday—and today was the day to get them fixed. I was home about 10:00. Then turned to reading: James 1 + 2, Joshua 11-17. Took time with the mail when it came—a note from Lea. We had lunch about noon. Bonnie left for work, Debbie played in her room and I devoted my afternoon to Mowinckel for the most part—although I did doze off for a while. Bonnie arrived home early—about 4:45. She wasn’t feeling too well—i.e., she didn’t want any supper. I fixed supper for Debbie and myself, but when I went upstairs to get Debbie she was still sound asleep—in the closet—so I just let her be. I ate supper; worked on composing the letter which I’m writing to the chaplain on USS Wasp re: the Favreau family situation. Watched CBS news, etc. Bonnie + Debbie arrived downstairs—Debbie had her supper + bath. I returned to reading Mowinckel for a while, then played with Debbie. Looked at her books—there’s one drawing of a girl in a bikini—I pointed this out to Debbie and she said “bikini” very clearly—so there’s one more word in her vocabulary! Jerry called: Carol has fever of 102°—apparently flu. Had snack, studied til c. 10:00; worked on getting a sermon idea for this Sunday. No bath, OBLO c. 11:05.

Wednesday, 20 January 1971

Up about 8:15. Read James 3-5, Judges 18-24 end. —although this wasn’t completed til late in the morning. I had a small breakfast when Bonnie + Debbie were in the process of getting breakfast. Shaved. Then turned to reading; this was interrupted by the arrival of the mail man. He brought Newsweek, which I spent some time with. But then I did get some reading done in Mowinckel before noon—at which time we fixed lunch. After lunch I finally finished my review of Mowinckel. Then I moved on to the next major topic—i.e., the Prophets. The first order of business here is Eissfeldt’s article in OT and Modern Study. I read in that until it was time to put supper together. I also read through the pages while working on supper in stages. We ate about 5:30. 6:00-6:30 I got a little more reading done in Eissfeldt. 6:30-7:00 watched CBS news—prepared for the 7:30 meeting—Winnie, Kay, Homer, Sadie. We didn’t get away until after 8:00—because that was when Kay thought the meeting was. It was a rather enjoyable evening—with much commenting and chit chat on various subjects—but the main business of the meeting was accomplished. This was over by 10:00. Bonnie and I had an ice cream snack, then turned to reading—for a brief time. Bathed about 11:00. Read Habakkuk. OBLO c. 11:45.

David’s diary, 20 January 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/29/davids-diary-january-17-1971/

David’s Diary – January 13, 1971

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Wednesday, 13 January 1971

Up at 7:00. Read in the Letter to the Hebrews, chapters 1 + 2, then Numbers 16-19. Shaved, had breakfast. While doing my reading the funeral director called: Mrs. Francis O’Reilly died—very suddenly—only 61. Collapsed while shopping yesterday. I called Sarah Orne for her to pass the word to W.S.C.S. members. After eating breakfast, I dressed and prepared to leave for Boston. Left Rockport about 9:20. Got to Boston with no problem. Stopped at the BU bookstore for a copy of Playboy, then went to pick up registration materials; by about 10:50 I was at Beck’s office. We had a productive session—at 11:45 we went to the Faculty Dining room and had lunch together—discussing quite a few OT issues. After leaving Beck, I completed the registration procedures, left BU about 2:00. Went to Sears, picked up the pile of merchandise which we’d ordered yesterday. Then I headed for the Copley Square area—finally found a parking place. Went to the Bishop’s office, to get photos of himself + resumés—in connection with his visit to Rockport in March. Stopped to browse at Cokesbury and another bookstore—but then headed for home. Stopped at A.G. hospital, about 4:30 to see Joseph Tarvis. Home just about 5:00. We fixed supper—read in Playboy, watched CBS news. About 7:15 I went to see the O’Reilly family. Home about 8:00—watched the last half of Storefront Lawyers. 8:30–9:30 at Town hall re: Project NUVA fund request. Home again, relaxed, read in Newsweek, snacked, bathed; OBLO c. 11:30 Θ.

Thursday, 14 January 1971

Up at 7:00. Read Hebrews 3-5, Numbers 20-24. Shaved, had breakfast. Shortly after 9:00 I went down to Richdales for milk. When I got home I stretched out for a short while—I didn’t get enough sleep last night. At 10 o’clock I went to St. Mary’s for a meeting with Bamforth and Nutting, re: C.O.C.U. study groups which are being launched. Was home by 11:00. Didn’t have ambition to do much of anything, read in Playboy for a while. At noon I went to pick up Virginia Bate. She had lunch with us then stayed with Debbie while we went to Gloucester. We did some grocery shopping at Stop + Shop. Then went to Dr. Stelluto’s office for Bonnie’s appointment. Drue was there, so the pregnancy is no longer a secret. We brought Drue back to Rockport. Got here shortly before 3:00. There was a[n] urgent message to call Mrs. Favreau—I did—she wanted me to come over immediately. I took Virginia home, then went to see her. It was about her marriage, i.e., she’s very upset because her husband’s asking for a divorce. I left her about 4:00—came home, changed, went to the funeral home to see the O’Reillys. Home at 5:00. Fixed supper. Bonnie feeling lousy. Watched CBS news, etc. No ambition—very weary. I did write part of a long letter to Gary Myers [1]—hope I’ll get some response. Watched The Odd Couple. Prepared for bed. OBLO c. 10:20.

Friday, 15 January 1971

Up at 7:00. Read Hebrews 6-8, Numbers 25-30. Shaved. Bonnie and Debbie appeared on the scene, we had breakfast. After eating I finished the letter to Gary Myers which I’d started last night. When it was finished I went to the Post Office. Then stopped at the church to change the wayside pulpit. Shortly after I arrived home the mail came—letters from Bonnie’s mother and from David Watson. We had lunch just about noon. At 12:30 I went to Millbrook Park and picked up Miss Bachmann—a neighbor of Virginia Bate—who we had arranged as sitter for Debbie, since Virginia had other commitments. Took Bonnie to work, then came back home, after getting gas changed clothes. Just as I was preparing to leave the house, part of the metal frame of my glasses broke—the left lens was left hanging by just one screw. But it held. 2:00-3:00 was the funeral and committal service for Mrs. Francis O’Reilly. Came home by 3:00. Changed, took Miss Bachmann home, stopped in to see Amie—Virginia’s aunt—took her some roses from the funeral. Virginia had just arrived home. I left Debbie with them while I went to Dr. Clapp’s office. Then spent 4:00-4:45 with them, picked up Bonnie, came home, fixed supper. Was very exhausted—watched CBS news, etc. Much of the evening I felt very lousy. Upset stomach, distress in my bowels. Plus my head cold is much worse. So nothing much was accomplished on anything. Bathed, OBLO 11:40.

Saturday, 16 January 1971

[Top panel: pictures of Debbie at Patriquins; 2 years 5 months old today; Hebrews 9-10; Numbers 31-36 end]

The head cold broke up my routine—I needed the rest, so I didn’t get up at 7:00—stayed in bed until after 9:00. Wasn’t feeling too ambitious. Shaved, then sat at my desk for a while. My main preoccupation today, of course, had to be the sermon. I made some headway at that before lunch, but really not much until after. A couple of times I had to stretch out to regain my strength. I did make decent progress in the afternoon. Mid afternoon Bonnie decided to go to Gloucester, for groceries, cash—and to Busseys to pick up some more of the things that we’re buying from them. While she was gone I finished the sermon, then worked on the bulletins—also got those finished before she got home. She got here about 5:45. We had supper quickly—a roast—then about 6:45 took Debbie down to Patriquins. We went to Gloucester to see the movie “Joe.” A good but rather depressing film about Joe—a “typical” (?) American—at least typical of some Americans. The film was entirely honest as far as language was concerned: the word “fuck” was heard as frequently as the word “God” is heard at a Billy Graham rally. Plus nudity and sex—which increased the feeling of authenticity. How chilling it is to reflect that there are probably far too many Joes around. Got back to Patriquins by 9:15—visited for a while—took some photos of Debbie—but then came home. finished polished draft of sermon; prepared service, bathed, worked, OBLO 12:35.

[1] My roommate at Indiana University.

David’s diary, 16 January 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/28/davids-diary-january-13-1971/

David’s Diary – January 9, 1971

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Saturday, 9 January 1971

Up at 7:00. Read chapters 1-4 of 1 Timothy, and the first 3 chapters of Numbers. Then shaved—after which I reviewed in Mowinckel until Bonnie and Debbie appeared downstairs. We had breakfast together, then I called the Busseys to find out how the meeting went last evening: Riverdale + Wesley Pastor-Parish relation boards met, Jim announced his resignation and his move to Arizona—and Mac White announced that R + W are now on a 2 point charge, with John Dunnach appointed. Although everyone was surprised and shocked, there was little anger apparently. Right as the phone conversation was coming to an end, Homer Orne came to the door. We had a brief conference on several matters. Shortly after he left the mail arrived and I took time to examine it. After lunch I turned to working on the bulletins. After finishing these I went to the church to rearrange some of the banners. When I got home Bonnie went to Busseys to buy some of their things which they’re wanting to sell: file cab., lamps. I helped get them in the house when she got home; while she was gone I practiced the sermon, tried to nap. We fixed supper, then in the evening I did a little desk work, but also worked on the service—practiced the sermon again. Also worked on my Sunday School lesson: beginning in Mark—we’ll just read right straight through it. Relaxed, bathed OBLO 11:20.

Sunday, 10 January 1971

Up shortly after 7:00. Read chapters 5 and 6 of I Timothy, then Numbers 4-6. Practiced sermon. Shaved; Debbie and Bonnie were downstairs by this time. Dressed. Prepared to meet my Sunday School Class. We began Mark’s gospel. The girls are [not] always right on time—in fact tardiness is a problem—so we didn’t have too much time. Read through Mark 1:1-34. Will just take our time and go through the whole gospel. I was able to get to the church by about 10:40. Preached on COCU—“What Does God Require of Us?”—insisting that we have to study the Plan of Union fairly to arrive at the answer to the question. Home and had lunch by 1:30. I stretched out and fell very soundly asleep. Late in the afternoon I got up and did a little studying. But then had to fix supper. Between 6:00 and 6:30 I wrote my weekly letter to Mrs. Myers, then about 6:40 went to the Congregational Church. All the Methodists were there at 7:00 or shortly thereafter, but the Congregationalists + Episcopalians had been told 7:30. So we sang hymns til everyone had gathered. 33 in all: 3 clergy, 20 Episcopalians, 7 Methodists, 3 congregationalists. I, speaking for the clergy, led the meeting—suggested 10 week study, 3 groups—based on the Plan of Union. The surface feeling seemed to be warm and receptive—but tonight’s meeting wasn’t designed to get feelings out in the open pro or con—and we tried to emphasize we had joined together to study—not be persuaded; Bonnie was [at] a play reading all evening; I picked up Debbie from Patriquins about 10:15. Came home, relaxed, had pie, started new batch of bread. OBLO c. 11:30.

Monday, 11 January 1971

[Top panel: called Ann Fisk today to inquire about the Herlihys joining the garden—indefinite; small angel fish died]

Up shortly after 7:00. Read 2^nd Timothy, chapters 7-10 of Numbers. I had a headache. I’ve never been drunk—so I’ve never had a hang over, so I don’t know what that’s like—but I imagined that a hangover couldn’t feel much different than what I felt like! I stretched out on the bed in the front room—I didn’t fall asleep, but I got up about the time Debbie and Bonnie were emerging. After breakfast it was a busy morning. I had a couple of letters to write—to Mrs. Balf (league of women voters re: C.A.M.P. business) and a letter to Cokesbury. Plus finish my letter to Mrs. Myers and prepare my Eagle article. I left the house about 11:50. Went to the Congregational church office to get a sheet xeroxed. Then to the Eagle office, then to the P.O., then home. After lunch Bonnie was off to work, Debbie played in her room. I then made my bread. By the time this was finished (i.e., bread in pans on radiator to rise) I was exhausted—again I stretched out—was dozing when Ed Nutting called. After that I was gradually feeling well enough to study. So I got some work done before Bonnie got home from work. She was feeling so lousy that she had a simple supper in bed—early in the evening she was feeling better. Debbie and I ate together downstairs. Watched CBS news, cleaned up kitchen. 8:00–8:45 paid visit on Barbara Olson + Albert Tarvis—their father very ill; home by 9:00. Relaxed, snacked—no more work accomplished; bathed. OBLO c. 11:05.

Tuesday, 12 January 1971

[Top panel: called Sears in Boston]

Up shortly after 7:00. Read Titus and Philemon, then Numbers 11-15. Shaved. Then began rereading Johnson’s article on Psalm Studies in Old Testament and Modern Study. This occupied me until Bonnie and Debbie arrived downstairs. We had breakfast, then I turned to this article again until the mail arrived. I spent a few minutes reading some articles in the New Republic. We had lunch during the noon hour, then Bonnie left for work. Debbie went to play in her room. I went back to reading. About 2 o’clock I stretched out for a few minutes and was revived. Then I read the rest of the afternoon. Finished Johnson’s article. Then turned to reviewing. Reread Albright’s chapter on the JE complex and Kitchen chapter on literary criticism. I looked through the paper when it arrived—Bonnie arrived home while I was so occupied. We fixed a simple supper. Then I went back to reading (in Kitchen); at 6:30 watched CBS news, etc. 7:30–8:00 played with Debbie—her favorite request these days is “house—up high” meaning that she wants me to build a high structure with her blocks. Most of the evening I had an upset stomach and was rather uncomfortable. But I finished Kitchen and turned to Kaufmann’s essay on the antiquity of P. [1] Bonnie was out for the evening at Community Chorus Board meeting. I stopped studying shortly before 10:00. Prepared a written statement of my studying for Beck. Bathed. Relaxed, read; OBLO 11:30.

[1] In this diary entry, JE and P refer to the hypothesis that the first five books of the Old Testament, the Pentateuch, were the creation of several authors. The J author used the name Yahweh for God (or, with different vowels, Jehovah—hence the “J”); the E author used the name Elohim for God; the P author represented a separate priestly class. The D author created the Book of Deuteronomy. It’s complicated:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Documentary_hypothesis

David’s diary, 12 January 1971

©2017 copyright owned and transcribed by David Madison and Deborah Sweeney
Post originally found: https://genealogylady.net/2017/11/26/davids-diary-january-9-1971/

David’s Diary – January 5, 1971

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Tuesday, 5 January 1971

[Top panel: long distance calls: Cokesbury, Boston Whittemore Cokesbury, Teaneck Beck]

Up about 7:30—Θ—(i.e., I was beautifully seduced by my wife) so I didn’t get up til shortly after 8:00. I came downstairs, shaved immediately—as I was having my breakfast, Miss Rose Margossian, whom I was supposed to meet at the church at 9 o’clock, called to postpone the meeting because she was having car trouble. So I was able to turn to my reading. I read Paul’s letter to the Colossians; when Bonnie and Debbie came downstairs I had a cup of tea while they had breakfast. Then I started reading in Exodus, chapters 19-24—before this was finished the mail man arrived, with very little. Late in the morning I was on the telephone getting details re: the upcoming COCU study tended to. Had to talk with Bamforth, Nutting, Cokesbury, Boston, Whittemore—and Cokesbury in Teaneck. After lunch Bonnie went to work—Debbie went to play in her room. I tried to get back to studying, but was rather drowsy. I got a phone call from Miss Margossian—so I met her at the church about 2:45—with Debbie. Homer was also there. She is with Action, Inc. and wants to use the church for Head Start if needed. Came home after changing the wayside pulpit. Studied or dozed. I had supper almost ready by the time Bonnie got home. Just as CBS news was almost over—Bob Dawson arrived to work on our electrical problem, i.e., two outlets in dining room not working. He fixed it by 7:30. Also advised us on putting electric heat in back room upstairs. Bonnie went to SS meeting; I played with Debbie (built blocks to the ceiling!) then studied in Mowinckel until about 10:15. Relaxed, read, bathed OBLO 11:35.

Wednesday, 6 January 1971

[Top panel: 3 photos of cats]

Up at 7:30—came downstairs, read first 3 chapters of Thessalonians while having my orange juice, then turned directly to reviewing Mowinckel. At that hour I was in no condition to plow through Exodus 27. About 9:30 or so my peace was interrupted by the arrival of Deborah—and we had breakfast together. Bonnie made it out of bed while we were eating. After breakfast I shaved, then turned back to Mowinckel until the mail arrived, then spent some time with it. Read some more until lunch time. During the noon hour I made a walking trip down to Richdales for milk and bread. We had lunch when I got home. After eating I took our Xmas tree (which was out in the yard) + the two trees (discarded in the yard) of our neighbors—a[nd] dumped them over the edge of the wall in the yard—where we have dumped brush in the past—this way they won’t have to be burned. Took 3 pictures of the cats. Sully had managed to climb up into the attic of the garage (using the car as a stepping stool) and was relaxing in the window! Early in the afternoon I made a beginning on the sermon for next Sunday, then about 3:00 turned back to Mowinckel. Becky Bussey dropped in—and she and Bonnie visited upstairs while I read downstairs. Shortly after she left I began getting supper ready. Just as we were preparing to eat, Ed Nutting dropped by with some figures on JYF monies. When he left we ate; watched CBS news. Spent the evening studying; about 10:00 began reading in Exodus, i.e., skimmed chpts. 27-31; bathed; OBLO c. 10:50.

Thursday, 7 January 1971

[Top panel: 1 photo of cat on radiator]

Up at 7:05. Had juice along with St. Paul; read the 4^th and 5^th chapters of I Thessalonians, then turned to Exodus 32-34. Shaved and began again in Mowinckel’s Psalms—worked reviewing this until Bonnie and Debbie came down for breakfast after 9:30. Ate with them, then returned to Mowinckel until the mail man arrived—spent some time with it. After lunch Bonnie went to Gloucester—to pick up this month’s surplus food and to go to the grocery store. Debbie played in her room, I studied—dozed briefly too. When Bonnie got home about 2:30 I helped her unload the car, then at 3:00 I went to St. Mary’s church. Bamforth, Nutting and I had a meeting to plan this Sunday’s meeting to launch the COCU plan of union study. We met until about 4:35. We have remained very flexible about how to handle Sunday—a lot depends upon how large a crowd turns out. COCU is so remote to most people—they just don’t know what it’s all about—and that’s very unfortunate in view of its importance. As soon as I came home I worked on supper. We ate between 5:30 and 6:00. Watched CBS news. 7:30–8:30 I spent doing some phoning and working further on the sermon. 8:30–10:00 TV: Ironside and Odd Couple. After which I returned to working on the sermon—got about 90% of my rough draft done—the subject is COCU—will the Marrs walk out?! Bathed about 11:30. OBLO 11:50.

Friday, 8 January 1971

Up at 7:00. Read 2 Thessalonians and finished the book of Exodus before turning to Mowinckel. I was tired—previous mornings this week the early hour hasn’t bothered me too much—but it has [been] hard to stay awake; I dozed briefly sitting in Bonnie’s rocker. She and Debbie appeared downstairs before 9:30—then we all had breakfast. I then for back to working in Mowinckel until the mail man arrived. He brought both a box of slides and a movie. We viewed the slides. After lunch Bonnie left for work, Debbie played in her room, and I got to work on the sermon—this was my main preoccupation for the afternoon. I had the rough draft largely done, so it was a matter of producing the final, polished written draft. I was done with this about 3:30. Then I turned to the slides which had arrived today—i.e., cataloguing, numbering, dating, labeling—also had to mount 2 slides that had been returned unmounted. Fixed supper, so we ate shortly after Bonnie arrived home. I was pretty exhausted, weary. Watched CBS news, etc—Spoke to Lewises on the phone. The evening was spent at my desk, getting caught up here and there, making phone calls. I didn’t have the heart to go back to reviewing Mowinckel—which is really rather tedious. I think that the review is certainly helpful—but not very enjoyable or exciting. Bathed about 10:30. OBLO c. 11:00 Θ

David’s diary, 8 January 1971

David’s Diary – January 1, 1971

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Friday, 1 January 1971

[Top panel: started new roll of film—1. shots of Debbie asleep in deacon’s bench; 2. pictures of fish; 3. 2 pictures of Sullie watching fish]

The new year made its appearance with a roaring nor’easter snow storm—heavy, blowing snow from late morning until well into the evening. We stayed inside all day—got up about 9:00 after Θ—what a nice way to begin the new year! But such late rising—a habit which I’m trying to break, makes a very short morning—after breakfast is all over. Late in the morning I got to my reading, then we had a late lunch on towards 1:00. During the afternoon the storm raged, Bonnie slept a while—as did Debbie—and I got more reading done. I took several photos of Debbie; she’d fallen asleep in the deacon’s bench. Late in the afternoon I got my best studying in, then began working on supper. After supper, while the CBS news was on, I did some photographing of fish—i.e., our fish tank. I used my closeup lenses, so I hope there’ll be some good shots. The fish are not very interested in posing, so the photographer has to be quick. The evening was taken up with desk work. Getting bills ready to be mailed—i.e., checks to pay them. Also got some baptismal certificates (replacement copies) made out for the Favreau family—I’ve been very delinquent in getting this done. Then spent some time on the “reflections” at the beginning of this book. Finally returned to studying—after starting another batch of bread; read in Exodus—until news time. Then after this was over, and while Bonnie bathed, read more in Exodus—listened to Haydn, in stereo, with headphones—delicious! OBLO 12:30.

Saturday, 2 January 1971

Up at 7:30—miracle of miracles! I came downstairs and had a cup of coffee, read in St. Paul—finished Ephesians. Perhaps I wasn’t reading in St. Paul, since some doubt that he is the author of that letter. Then I turned to Exodus and read several chapters. My new year’s resolution: to read from both OT and NT every day—how long will it last, who knows? I then turned to Eissfeldt—read in that after shaving (2 day beard)—when Bonnie and Debbie came down about 9:30 I had breakfast with them. After eating I got several pieces of mail ready for the P.O. and went down there. When I got home I tackled the snow in the driveway—drifts near the garage and near the front door. While I was working on the one near the front door, Debbie came out to “assist” me—Bonnie took a couple of pictures. The mail man brought a large envelope from mother, a photo of my great grandfather, Christian Yegerlehner—who came to the U.S. from Switzerland to avoid the military draft! [1] Ancestors I can be proud of! I was exhausted after the snow shoveling, relaxed, had lunch around 1:00. Then I had to attend to making my bread. Late in the afternoon I finally got to work on the communion message for tomorrow. I had the rough draft done by supper time. After we ate I had to turn my thoughts to the bulletin. I did it, completed the sermon, prepared the service. This took the whole evening—I’ve written a “Sadie Sermon”—i.e., it ought to please conservative Sarah Orne—it doesn’t hurt to have the truth of conservative theology represented from the pulpit from time to time! Bathed OBLO 11:25.

Sunday, 3 January 1971

Up shortly after 7:30. Had cup of coffee, St. Paul and Exodus. Read chapters 1 and 2 of Philippians—then turned to several chapters of Exodus. I then turned to shaving, and by the time I finished this breakfast was being readied. After eating I dressed, practiced sermon, then left for the church about 10:25. Everything was set for the communion service—a moderate sized crowd turned out: 30—preached on “More Reasons for Hope.” We got home between 12:30 and 1:00—fixed lunch. Then I just relaxed for a while. Sat in Bonnie’s big rocker in the living room, listening to music with the headphones. Then about the middle of the afternoon I turned again to reading in Eissfeldt; late in the afternoon I typed out the Blessing of Jacob and the Blessing of Moses in parallel columns. Then we fixed supper. The supper hour was used for relaxation—listened to the Boston Pops. Play reading was to have been tonight, but it was post-poned until next Sunday. I hadn’t planned to go—so that I could stay home studying—and I won’t be able to go next week because of the COCU meeting. Bonnie made one brief trip out in the evening to return the big stapler to Jerry, but for the most part we just sat at the dining table—she wrote thank-you notes and letter—I studied—with Hadyn in the background. Among other things, I read the Holiness code—Leviticus certainly isn’t thrilling reading! About 11 o’clock stopped study; relaxed—concluded “reflections” at the beginning of this volume. OBLO 11:45 Θ

Monday, 4 January 1971

Up ay 7:30. Finished Philippians, then read chapters 15 to 18 in Exodus. I then shaved, and prepared to have breakfast with Bonnie and Debbie—after making a couple of phone calls re: the upcoming drug program, and the project NUVA requests for funds from the town of Rockport. After eating breakfast I returned immediately to writing Mrs. Myers. When I’d finished this, the mail arrived—a letter arrived from Bonnie’s mother—she’s dreaming already of Christmas this year—they’ll be home of course—and they want us to come to Centerville—all 4 of us by that time. I’m not very enthusiastic about the idea—but I suppose that we should honor their wishes since we’ve had so few Christmases together. After looking over all the mail, I set off on my errands; had to get some papers notarized re: insurance (at town hall), went to the P.O., then to Eagle office with my weekly article. When I got home I spent some time before lunch reading in The New Republic. We had lunch, Bonnie left for work—Debbie went into her room for play and nap. And I turned to reading—although the first part of the afternoon I spent a good deal of time on the phone, with Jim Bussey—and with a woman from Action, Inc. re: using our church for Head Start. Spent latter part of the afternoon reading; had supper ready when Bonnie got home; after eating read before CBS news. 7:30–9:00 —at Ornes conferring on Head Start, COCU, etc. Home—study until about 11:00; bathed; read briefly; OBLO 11:48.

David’s diary, January 4, 1971

[1] This is a family story which has been garbled over time. Christian Yegerlehner most likely did not leave Switzerland to avoid the military draft, but rather because of the rights of primogeniture. Although Christian was the eldest son, his father was not. There was no land for him to inherit in Switzerland. Christian, his parents, and siblings left Switzerland in 1851 with several other Swiss families. Christian later served in the Civil War. Gladys most likely confused Christian Yegerlehner with Roscoe’s other grandfather, Michael Schiele, who as a young man left the Prussian empire which did have a mandatory draft. Michael belonged to the United Brethren Church which typically opposed military service. Michael did not serve during the Civil War.

David’s Diary – December 31, 1970

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Thursday, 31 December 1970

Up shortly after 8:00; had a cup of coffee while reading St. Paul—then began in Eissfeldt. When Bonnie and Debbie got up I had breakfast with them. Then shaved. One of the things that I had to do was fill out a long personality test for John Stuart—Ph.D., connected with Cape Ann Family + Child Center. More than 200 forced choice questions, so it took a while. The mail man brought letters from Paul + Marty, and the Kings, who seem to be doing well. Before lunch I finished the personality test. Immediately after lunch Bonnie left to do shopping—grocery mainly. I helped her unload the car when she got home. While she was gone I was occupied at my desk, writing letters—to Bob Waugh [1] and to Planned Parenthood/World Population. After Bonnie got back with the groceries she set off for Beverly—bought $23 worth of aquarium supplies! —including new fish: algae eaters, catfish, 2 moon fish, 2 guppies. I got some reading done before she arrived home—then was occupied with the aquariums. Then studied briefly again before supper. After eating watched CBS news. Bonnie went off on errands, I read, then 8:30–1:000 TV (Ironside + Odd Couple) Then snacked and studied more—mainly on Holiness Code. At 11 o’clock watched news for weather report—big snow coming; watched Johnny Carson New Year’s celebration; 104 year old guest (!); bathed; OBLO c. 1:05

1971

[There are four pages of the 1971 diary, before 1 January, titled “Reflections”]

1971 will be a very important year—perhaps for many reasons—but certainly on the personal level. Foremost in my mind at the present time are the exams—the whole future depends on them—i.e., my passing them. And 1971 will tell the story on those. By the end of this year I should be devoting most of my time to dissertation research. If I pass the retake exam on Feb. 1, hopefully I can take the second exam by conference time, the third by the end of the summer; the fourth—the Hebrew—in the fall. But things have been thrown off greatly in the past year—so who knows what will happen. My great wish right now is to be able to pass the Feb. 1 exam—as much as anything to be able to regain some confidence. I do have my moments of doubt about ever getting my Ph.D.—my interview with Richardson following the first exam was pretty severe—and most of what he said was quite right. But if I pass the Feb. 1 exam at least I’ll be reassured that I can pass—not to pass a “qualifying” exam naturally means that the candidate doesn’t qualify. So my spirits as well as my career academically will be moved along by a pass.

1971 also means the enlargement of the family, the new baby being due about July 1. So here are things competing for my time: we’re planning to attend parenthood classes so that I’ll be “qualified” (!) to be in the delivery room. So there goes one evening a week—also—as far as an activity consuming time is concerned—when the garden starts up again in the spring, I’ll be the main worker for our family, since Bonnie will be further along with the pregnancy. We have some names picked out—or rather, one: Daniel Josiah, if it’s a boy—but no girls’ names yet. I’ve suggested Rachel Sarah so that the initials would be RSY!

Another exciting event in 1971 is the homecoming of Bonnie’s folks from Penang—we’re looking forward to that very much—and I’m sure they are too. Debbie is going to be very confused about just who “grandma” and “grandpa” are. The terms apply to my folks and we also called Grandma + Emil that—so here another set is arriving this summer. 1971 will also means a significant year in Debbie’s development—by Jan 1, 1972 she should be talking rather fluently.

June 1971 will also be my last appointment to the Rockport church. When we came here in Nov. 1967 we really didn’t dream that we’d be here until June or Sept of 1972—almost 5 years it will be. It has been a most helpful experience—but I’ll be glad when it’s over. I’m preparing for something else—I have been since 1968—so I’ll be glad to move on to that “something else.” I’ve calculated that I have about 75 sermons to go! Unless, as has been suggested—Nutting, Bamforth and I can work out some pulpit exchange for the summer. A very staggering thought: 75 more sermons to prepare!

Besides learning a lot more about the OT in 1971 (I’d better!) I also want to deepen my knowledge of St. Paul (although not necessarily my appreciation). I’ve already started rereading his letters—for 1971 I should read them all through several times, in RSV, NEB, TEV—a little each day. After all, I may be having to teach St. Paul next year! His writings leave me very cold—there is a glimmer here and there, a gem—a beautiful phrase or thought—but largely it is useless. Christ for St. Paul was a man, with a specific biography. I prefer to think of the “Christ principle” or the “Christ Process”—its happening all the time, in all generations and ages. Pope John XXIII, Martin Luther King was a modern “Christ” —an anointed one—and perhaps he and many other people in history have been greater Christs than Jesus was—we know so little about Jesus really—and some of the things that we do know aren’t very complimentary. I think that we need to outgrow “Jesus exclusivism”—which of course is what St. Paul represents. Theism is very beautiful, but it can be so flawed by narrow creeds and doctrines. Theism shouldn’t be the exclusive possession of the followers of Jesus Christ—that is, contrary to the New Testament, there is not only [one] way to God through Jesus Christ, whatever that may mean. God is approachable, accessible on a much wider basis. “What does the Lord of you—but to do justice, to love mercy—to walk humbly with your God” [2]—there’s more truth to this than John 3:16. [3] The God of infinite and eternal compassion does not react to (does not deal with) the world and to people in the narrow ways which the Bible sometimes assumes. (e.g. John 14:6 [4])

1971 should also hold the key to our course as a nation; i.e., by this time next year we should have a better idea as to Nixon’s chances of being re-elected. So many pieces of evidence have appeared to confirm Chet Huntley’s analysis of Nixon (later denied!) as very shallow. At a time when we need brilliant and outstanding leadership—our president is one whose friends include Agnew, Mitchell, Billy Graham, Bob Hope (and whose appointees include Haynworth + Carswell!); he refuses to disassociate himself from J. Edgar Hoover’s labeling of ML King as a liar (Dec 1970 news conference); he brags about $10 Billion over several years for anti-pollution—and supports the SST [5]; he “Vietnamizes” a war he has the power to STOP—to save face—maintain our pride—he maintains our involvement—withdrawing so slowly—how many will die because of his vanity and stupidity? Surely the country will be ready for an alternative—in 1971 we will discover who the Democrats have to offer.

[1] A friend from my days at Indiana University.

[2] Micah 6:8

[3] “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only ^abegotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.”

[4] ‘Jesus said to him, ‘I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.”

[5] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supersonic_transport