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What are important aspects of spirituality from a Lutheran perspective?

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What are important aspects of spirituality from a Lutheran perspective?

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Lutheran spirituality centers around grace through faith, a commitment to Scripture, engagement in prayer and coming together to worship. It underscores the pivotal role of God's Word and salvation through faith alone.

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Clarification - the act of receiving kindness or a positive gesture, especially when unexpected or perceived as undeserved, can trigger the release of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward. Experiencing acts of kindness and generosity can contribute to feelings of joy, gratitude, and overall well-being, and the release of dopamine is one of the neurochemical responses associated with these positive emotions. It's no wonder we get the warm and fuzzies when we show and receive grace.

However, people's reactions to grace can vary based on individual personalities, beliefs, and circumstances. While some individuals may genuinely appreciate and feel grateful for the grace shown to them, others might react with surprise, skepticism, or even discomfort. This diversity in reactions is influenced by factors such as personal experiences, cultural background, and beliefs about deservingness.

In certain situations, individuals may struggle with feelings of unworthiness or may find it challenging to accept grace if they perceive themselves as undeserving. On the other hand, some people may feel humbled and inspired to reciprocate kindness when shown grace.

It's important to recognize that emotional responses to grace are complex and can differ widely among individuals. Understanding and respecting these variations can contribute to more meaningful and empathetic interactions.

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In what ways might the concept of grace shape Lutheran education communities?

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In what ways might the concept of grace shape Lutheran education communities?

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In Lutheran education, the profound concept of grace serves as a guiding principle, shaping the ethos of learning environments. Embracing grace fosters an atmosphere of acceptance, forgiveness and understanding, which allows both students and educators to acknowledge their imperfections and grow without fear of judgement. This encourages recognition of one's limitations and that learning is a continuous journey. Grace underpins a supportive educational community which values the individual for who they are and who they are meant to be.

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In what ways might the concept of grace inform the understanding of my role and my contribution?

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In what ways might the concept of grace inform the understanding of my role and my contribution?

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As a secondary teacher, grace can help me to foster an environment of understanding and support. I can learn to recognise the inherent challenges and diverse needs of students, because a grace-centered approach encourages patience, empathy and a greater willingness to guide students through their learning journeys. If I understand the concept of grace, then I can better understand my part within the a compassionate and inclusive school community, emphasising the unique talents and mistakes of the individual.

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What insights does it unveil? It's highly anticipated. Individuals are distancing themselves from traditional religious institutions and cultivating their own system of values and morals. They are subsequently seeking beliefs and practices that align with their established principles, rather than conforming to pre-existing norms.

Challenges abound – it is imperative for churches to modernise. The conventional route to connecting with God is no longer as prevalent.

However, challenges can be transformed into opportunities. The majority of individuals shown statistically are swayed by their family and friends. Establishing connections among people and organising events may be a viable approach. The psychology behind successful churches, groups, clans, or cults lies in their ability to create collective 'moods' that captivate individuals. For instance, entities like Assemblies of God excel in this, but they risk losing considerable faith if they fail to align with people's values and morals.

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This reflection emphasizes that a tree's strength is not derived from its fruits, but rather it is acknowledged as strong based on the quality of its produce. In essence, the outcomes or manifestations of strength become the visible indicators of the tree's inherent resilience and vitality.
However, this raises the inquiry: If the tree were cultivated exclusively under the principle of grace, would it still exhibit the same degree of resilience and flourishing growth?
Nevertheless, in my perspective, grace suggests the presence of opportunity.
It symbolises hope and persistence, as we seek to find the positive qualities in others and anticipate their development. It represents confidence that our compassion and actions towards others will foster progress and benevolence, rather than fostering entitlement and idleness.

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Bolz Weber's characterization of Grace as a top-down approach raises intriguing questions about the extent to which this concept permeates various societal groups and levels. If God extends Grace to humanity, does this imply a parallel expectation for leaders towards their subordinates, teachers towards students, and leadership teams towards educators? Regrettably, my observation suggests that even in Lutheran Education, there appears to be a gap between the theoretical concept of grace and its practical implementation.

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Lutheran Theology in 90 Seconds -- Nadia Bolz Weber

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Reflection:

This effectively captures the prevailing perspectives among both Christians and non-Christians when it comes to the relationship between science and Christianity. It also aligns with my personal convictions, acknowledging a belief in God independent of organized religious institutions, recognizing that such institutions, being human creations, are susceptible to inherent biases and the influence of human imperfections.

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How does creation theology inform the why and how of Lutheran education?

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How does creation theology inform the why and how of Lutheran education?

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Creation theology plays a significant role in shaping the philosophy and approach of Lutheran education. Here's how it informs the "why" and "how" of Lutheran education:

Creation theology emphasizes that God is the creator of the universe and all life within it. In Lutheran education, this underscores the belief that each individual has a purpose within God's creation. The "why" of Lutheran education is grounded in helping students discover their purpose, understand their place in God's plan, and find meaning in their lives.

Lutheran theology teaches the concept of stewardship, emphasizing humanity's responsibility to care for God's creation (Blezard, 2021). In the context of education, this translates into instilling a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the environment, society, and one another. The "how" of Lutheran education involves fostering a curriculum and environment that promote ethical and responsible behavior.

Creation theology underscores the belief that each individual is created in the image of God, imbuing them with inherent dignity and value. In Lutheran education, this influences the "how" by fostering a learning environment that respects and values each student, promoting a sense of worthiness, inclusivity, and equality.

Creation theology acknowledges the interconnectedness of all aspects of creation. Lutheran education, guided by this theology, seeks to address the holistic development of individuals—intellectually, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. The "how" involves an integrated approach to education that nurtures students in various facets of their being.

Creation theology emphasizes the divine revelation through both God's creation and the Scriptures. In Lutheran education, the "why" involves helping students understand and integrate God's Word into their lives. The "how" involves a curriculum that incorporates religious studies, providing a foundation for spiritual growth and discernment.

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Bell (2016) "How to be here - Adam and Eve"

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Bell (2016) "How to be here - Adam and Eve"

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This commentary and interpretation of the Adam and Eve story highlights the notion that biblical creation aligns with human creativity. It underscores the idea that everyone has a choice in how they engage with the creation (world) surrounding them.

The story underscores the concept of free will, as Adam and Eve are given the choice to follow or disobey God's command. This highlights the human capacity for decision-making and the consequences that may result from choices.

Through the story, humans gain an awareness of good and evil, suggesting an inherent moral consciousness. This awareness implies a responsibility to make ethical choices and understand the consequences of one's actions.

This is relevant to my teaching role within a Lutheran school as we can encourage students to acknowledge their gifts and downfalls throughout their development, and that they always have the choice on how they respond to the world around them.

I have had conversations with students about how they see themselves as 'bad at maths', for example, but this just means in this aspect of their life they will just have to work harder than others to achieve the same outcome. This is reminiscent of everyone at some stage of their life and that students need to recognise everyone has their own unique set of talents, skills and luck. The difficulty remains: how can I converse with students about things that go wrong, or to explain the atrocities of the world - whether natural or man-made.

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How to Be Here by Rob Bell - Adam and Eve

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Bartsch, M. (2013). A God who speaks and acts: theology for teachers in Lutheran schools

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Bartsch, M. (2013). A God who speaks and acts: theology for teachers in Lutheran schools

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Reflection...

Extensive documentation affirms the inherent dependence of humans on social connections, with social interaction recognized as a significant factor influencing well-being, success, and health. This article delves into the crucial role relationships play in human development and explores how the Lutheran school actively cultivates these connections, contributing to both personal growth and the restoration of fractured relationships.
Regrettably, it is disheartening to observe a growing fragmentation of relationships within the Lutheran school I am acquainted with, a trend exacerbated by a heightened reliance on the goodwill of those with limited resources. However, upon reflection of the principles of grace and creation learned previously, one would recognize the collective experiences, insights, and reciprocal support that arise from collaborating with colleagues; and embracing the world outside of school, which is enabled by my place within the education system.
Gratefully, the concept of grace enables a perpetual perspective that deems the existing education system as open to receiving such viewpoints, fostering optimism and maintaining the belief that ongoing enhancement is consistently achievable; allowing also for the appreciation of God's creations across social, physical and spiritual domains.

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This resonated quite heavily with me as it seems to sum up our feelings as humans, responding to the confusion and mysteries of the world around us.

One of my favourite songs as a Country Music fan says "God is great, beer is good and people are crazy" - a line I find myself often repeating. And the nature of people is that we are complicated and unique individuals; and as Nadia Bolz-Weber explains in a previous video - we are all sinner and we are all saint.

From a scientific evolutionary perspective, we are the most heavily evolved animals towards social interactions, with a greater frontal cortex size and clearly a capacity for problem-solving, creativity, language and collaboration. Genetic factors may influence aspects of personality and attachment, while environmental factors, including family upbringing, culture, and life experiences, play a crucial role in shaping behavior, communication styles, and relationship dynamics. The complex interaction between genes and the environment contributes to the rich diversity of human relationships and individual differences in interpersonal skills.

Regardless, Mandy Bayton (2019) talks about how we are drawn by God to 'love' and the message is simple: it doesn't matter who people are, don't change them, just love them. While this is understandably hard to do with many people and seems oversimplified for the complexity of life, suited more to a colourful kindergarten room than the secondary classroom, or perhaps even less to the College staffroom - the simplicity of the message resounds still - and forms a comfort when critical thought and reflection on community, relationships and situations, denies other forms of positivity or acceptance.

Love - The Fuelcast

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What questions or issues does the concept raise for me and how can I explore my questions?

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What questions or issues does the concept raise for me and how can I explore my questions?

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Grace raises several questions for me, both as an educator as well as a person. For example, how can the concept of grace be reconciled with ideas of justice and accountability? This is particularly relevant when dealing with difficult student behaviours or with colleagues who do not pull their weight, as well as in the face of complex leadership nuances.

Similarly, I view the idea of grace within school contexts as somewhat ethereal and idealistic as a major underpinning for educational establishments; given that students also need to acquire the skills to navigate the real world without relying on the concept of grace. Consistently receiving grace, while generally positive, may have potential downsides including complacency, issues with accountability and an impact on peer relationships. It's important to strike a balance between offering grace and maintaining accountability to ensure healthy personal development and relationship dynamics.

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Beliefs about God are highly personal and can vary widely. Additionally, we may combine multiple approaches or draw from various sources to shape understanding of the divine. Ultimately, the quest to know about God is a lifelong journey for many, shaped by personal experiences, intellectual exploration, and spiritual growth.

Through education and in the classroom, students can come to know God through:

context in the physical sense - i.e. mysteries of the Universe and the landscape

context in the emotional and human sense - especially in the teaching of psychology; where humans are so intricately and uniquely made

context in chaos and disaster - where God can be found throughout the atrocities of life as well as searching for meaning behind the events that take place

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Why does Lutheran education value community?

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Why does Lutheran education value community?

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Community in Lutheran education is not just a physical gathering but a dynamic network of relationships characterized by mutual support and encouragement. Students learn not only from textbooks and lectures but also through the lived experiences of a supportive community that shares a common faith. A supportive community provides the necessary resources and relationships to nurture each student's growth, creating an environment where individuals are known and cared for beyond their academic achievements. It is regrettable that such a supportive community as discussed in the teachings of Lutheran education should be so lacking in the context of real-life; at least within personal reflective experience; as well as the shared experiences of others within the community. The word 'community' is used loosely here, as this implies a sense of unity, harmony and humility as versed in Ephesians 4:2-3: "Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace"; and is yet to be accomplished in the wider community that comprises my current religious and educative community. However, as Jesus states in Matthew 23:12 (as well as interestingly in Luke 14:11): "For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted", showing a deep sense of purpose and humility of the common worker. This reflects also some questions that have been raised through the teachings, which will be further explored through experience, conversation and additional research.

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Painting reflection of the article by Christenson "The gift and task of Lutheran higher education"

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"We needn’t keep one eye on God while working in the world; we can keep both eyes on the needs of our students, our children, our clients, on the tasks of farming, planing boards, or cleaning up the kitchen. We serve God inasmuch as we serve these things. Vocation does not require double vision nor double-mindedness" (Christenson, T. The gift and task of Lutheran higher education, pp 49-50).

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How does God's word form and inform Lutheran education communities and my role?

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How does God's word form and inform Lutheran education communities and my role?

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The integration of God's Word is a foundational and transformative aspect of Lutheran education communities, shaping both the ethos of the institution and the roles of its educators. As a high school science teacher within this context, my role involves navigating the intersection of faith and science, fostering an environment that reflects the principles of Lutheran theology.

God's Word forms the core of Lutheran education communities, providing a moral compass, a framework for understanding the world, and a lens through which all knowledge is filtered. The teachings of the Bible guide the development of a unique educational philosophy that emphasizes the interconnectedness of faith and learning. In the realm of science education, God's Word informs the curriculum by encouraging a reverence for creation. The natural world, as revealed in the Bible, is seen as a testament to God's design and wisdom. As a science teacher, I have the privilege of unveiling the wonders of creation to my students, instilling in them a sense of awe and curiosity about the intricacies of the universe. This approach aligns with the belief that the pursuit of scientific knowledge is a means of exploring God's creation.

Moreover, my role extends beyond merely imparting scientific facts; it involves fostering critical thinking and ethical considerations in the realm of science. The teachings of Jesus, as found in the Bible, guide discussions on the responsible use of knowledge, the ethical implications of scientific advancements, and the understanding that scientific inquiry should be driven by a commitment to truth and the well-being of humanity.

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What are the most significant aspects of Lutheran theology for Lutheran education?

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What are the most significant aspects of Lutheran theology for Lutheran education?

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Lutherans believe in the authority of the Bible as the sole source of divine revelation and guidance for faith and practice. The emphasis on Scripture informs the curriculum, guiding the integration of biblical teachings across various subjects. It encourages students to engage with and apply biblical principles in their academic pursuits. Lutheran education encourages a sense of vocation, seeing education as a calling. It emphasizes that each student has unique talents and is called to use them for the betterment of the community and the world. Lutheran theology contributes to a distinct educational philosophy that values faith, grace, community, and service within the context of academic learning and personal development.

The video link supplied above was presented within the Connect session and formed the primary conversation point. I learned some of the meanings behind this story and it inspired more critical reflection as discussed below. Regardless, I learned that unique individuals as we all are, are called upon to inspire others in different ways - some as teachers, policy makers, creators, inventors or game-changers.

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Book of Jonah Summary: A Complete Animated Overview

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What questions or issues does this raise for me and how can I explore these questions?

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What questions or issues does this raise for me and how can I explore these questions?

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How can the Bible be the authority for Christians when it was ultimately written and compiled by man, who is innately selfish and prone to mistakes?

How can I incorporate scripture into my teaching of science and psychology?

How can I better use hermeneutics to explore issues in the secondary curriculum that apply to my subject content?

I have a close network available to me, of people who I consider to be well-versed in scripture and experience, to whom I may direct questions as they arise. The Bible will always form a subject of reflection and contemplation for me, simultaneously raising and answering questions about life, spirituality, religion and community; and I feel comfortable approaching a number of people about my questions for discussion.

Following the final Connect session, I felt confused on what the point of the session was. I learned the story of Jonah and the whale but this did not relate greatly to my life, my teaching, my career. Thus, questions were raised and I pursued these questions, using resources available which I consider relevant and knowledgeable.

Jordan Peterson forms one such source and has greatly enhanced my own understandings of the content presented within Connect training.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gqn8OCl1H_c

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Articulate how your learning in Connect has influenced your understanding, practice and contribution to your Lutheran school.

While my involvement in Connect has sparked some level of insight and a desire for continued research, it is essential to acknowledge that its impact on my understanding, practice, and contribution to my Lutheran school has been minimal. Despite the wealth of resources and insights available on the platform, I have found that the specific nature of the content or the alignment with the unique context of my school has not substantially influenced my approach.

In terms of understanding, while I have explored various topics and perspectives on Connect, I have not encountered information or strategies that significantly altered my pre-existing understanding of Lutheran education principles. My existing knowledge base and experiences have continued to play a dominant role in shaping my educational philosophy; which I state without conceit, but an honest self-awareness that I remain on a continuous journey to expand my understanding through experience.

Regarding practice, the direct application of Connect-acquired knowledge in the classroom has been limited. The platform's offerings, though valuable, have not prompted significant adjustments or innovations in my teaching methodologies - especially given that many of the principles described as central to Lutheran education, such as grace and community, can be witnessed in many classrooms outside of the Lutheran system; and indeed may be considered part of any dedicated teacher's pedagogy.

While the platform fosters a community of educators, the opportunities for meaningful engagement or collaboration tailored to the specific needs of my Lutheran school have been limited. Consequently, my direct contributions to the school community remain largely influenced by internal dynamics and existing institutional priorities.

It is crucial to recognize that the absence of a substantial impact does not diminish the value of Connect; rather, it underscores the unique context and individualized nature of educational practices within a Lutheran school setting. Continued exploration and selective application of relevant content may yet yield more pronounced effects in the future. Regardless, the exposure to the training and the hours of personal time consequently devoted to the learning and reflections required, have certainly prompted closer spiritual reflection and a greater determination to pursue more sources of learning throughout my future within education.

I continue to draw knowledge and inspiration from sources presented through Connect, where thought-provoking answers to modern spirituality such as given by Hugh Mackay (2016) in the article 'Beyond Belief: Why Australians don't go to church, but call upon God in times of crisis', acknowledge the shifts in philosophy and religion in Australian society in an objective manner.

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Analyse and describe the ways Lutheran theological perspectives can shape practices in my school and classroom.

In addition to creating a nurturing and compassionate learning environment through the principles of grace, faith and love, Lutheran theological perspectives can also shape academic outcomes and a greater understanding of human nature, to produce more rounded, critical and informed citizens. Lutheran theology often acknowledges the fallen nature of humanity and the need for grace, which formed a significant portion of the Connect training and reflections. This perspective can shape practices by fostering empathy, understanding, and forgiveness in the school community. In the classroom, addressing conflicts with a compassionate and forgiving approach can reflect this understanding of human nature.
The interview presented with Philip Yancey brought up several ideas that are useful to remember within my role as a teacher in a Lutheran school, regarding grace and love and an openness to receive God's gifts. He also discusses the creation of an environment where 'grace is on tap' and therefore individuals can be more freely accepted for their failures and mistakes as well as their achievements. This is relevant in the classroom, as students can learn through experience the power of grace and humility, as well as learning and persisting through mistakes.

Jonathan Petersen (2014) 'Vanishing Grace: An Interview with Philip Yancey'

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Identify and critically reflect on unresolved issues or remaining questions to develop a plan for further learning that will advance your understanding.

I hold the perspective that my personal spirituality and religious beliefs should be kept separate from the classroom setting to prevent the introduction of religious bias or the unintentional promotion of a personal agenda; a preference I also hold for professional conversations and professional development. I consider these beliefs and values to be deeply personal, rooted in my own experiences and reflections, therefore I place significant value on them and opt to share selectively with individuals I consider worthy of such reflections. I respectfully value the contributions of colleagues and students within my education community, and whether they choose to reflect on personal beliefs or not. I have had experiences of worship sessions, services and conversations where personal agenda or a misinterpretation of God's word have poisoned the true purpose of these interactions. Connect has helped me to accept that these experiences cannot be generalised across religion-based systems, and that modern Lutheran education has a greater attitude towards acceptance and grace than I had previously considered. Engaging in the readings has helped to create a sense of openness, however questions and skepticism remains as to the application of these ideas in the real-world context of my school.

Theory serves as the compass that points us toward new horizons. It's the intellectual scaffold upon which we build our understanding of the world. However, theory alone is like a map without a traveler; it requires execution to breathe life into its promises. The chasm between theory and execution is where the complexities of reality emerge. I am now equipped through Connect with theory - through the raw comparison of statistics to the religious and spiritual experiences of others, and the bulk of my remaining questions now lies in the exploration and execution of these ideas in the context of the real world and my school. I am prepared to converse with experienced colleagues and the school Chaplain regarding my queries where necessary, and have rediscovered a pursuit of philosophical research to explore these ideas further.