magic hour n. a term used by a photographer i know when the sun begins to set. objects are simultaneously illuminated and cast in shadow, and just about everything becomes beautiful. even the seedy side of des moines.
i was driving home from a Bible study of sorts at Trinity Methodist this evening and was impressed by how the light hit many ordinary objects in a part of town that would not be considered beautiful. numerous houses in disrepair and an old school bus that may or may not have had an engine inside become more than just that during magic hour. they take on character and depth when the light illuminates and casts shadows on these objects at the same time. maybe because the juxtaposition of light and dark gives us a sense that we're seeing a more truthful depiction of the object as a whole. with unappealing as well as redeeming qualities.
discussion at the Bible study centered around the story of creation. we listened to some commentary of biblical scholars on contradictions between the two tellings of the creation story in Genesis and how these stories are interpreted by different parts of the church. we talked about creation stories from different societies and cultures and how they are a reflection of the value system of each society. the discussion was very open and comfortable. i did not feel that i had to restrain my true thoughts for fear of being labeled lost and heretical, which has been a common feeling in past discussions in a religious setting. we talked about what the story implies for our stewardship of the earth, and that although we have hope that our ultimate destiny is beyond this earth, that does not curtail the importance of doing good work with the time we have in this life.
in other news, Mexico beat France in the World Cup today and looked very impressive! they're next game against Uruguay should be the most challenging of all.
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