Library [Sunday]

[stupid-toasters.livejournal.com]

Lee had never been more thankful for the library than today. An easy, believable excuse not to go anywhere his father might be lurking.

He's behind the desk, maybe doing some sulking, or maybe he's just thinking. Who knows.

Comparative Religions, Monday, Period 3, Class #6

[spacepiratevala.livejournal.com]

"Good morning. I hope you all enjoyed your weekend with your parents, or have plans to go out drinking immediately after your last class today is finished to blot out the memories," Vala said as she passed out handouts. "Today's class is on Islam, and anyone who doesn't feel capable of having a calm, rational conversation on the topic is free to go. I know that there is a large anti-Muslim sentiment running rampant in this country right now, but I won't tolerate it in my classroom."

She waited until anyone who was going to leave did, then continued. "As I was saying, Islam is one of the three major world religions on this planet, and deserving of quite a bit of respect. As with Christianity and Judaism, there is a book--called the Qur'an--that forms the basis for the religion, and provides a guide for living a traditional Muslim life."

"The important prophet to know about is Muhammad, who is seen as restoring the world to the uncorrupted faith and religion of Abraham, the founder of Judaism, as you'll remember. The primary duties of both sects of Islam are called the Five Pillars of Islam, although some followers of the religion believe there are eight duties instead."

"Because we have already covered dietary laws under Judaism, today your project will be to find Mecca without benefit of a GPS--I'm told it's east of here. There are rugs provided for you, and I would like you to spend today in silent contemplation, for at least a few minutes, in whatever language or religious basis you prefer. Aren't you happy we're not part of a public school?"