Day 1: Why Care About Elements?

If they exist, then they are a fundamental part of everything we touch and of us.

We had serious weather in East Texas, and my flight was delayed yesterday. I’m now here in my temporary office this morning with a view of sunshine, water, and palm trees. Everything at home is fine. I broke my fast with some eggs, fruit, and cheese, made some coffee, took a walk, and am ready to work. My goal today is to write the first chapter, which will serve as the introduction and explanation of method and purpose. Organizing my thoughts feels a bit like cleaning out a closet. I need to dump everything out and sort it into piles. I've read a lot in preparation, and honestly, I'm confused.

Also honestly, philosophy frustrates me. It is not a straightforward discipline with textbooks like in chemistry or Church documents for theology. If you grant assent of the intellect and commit to learning those disciplines, the material is there to learn. Philosophy feels like Jello. Everyone I talk to gives me a reading list, which I greatly appreciate and heed by investment. The confusion i…