Farewell

As our journey has concluded, I wish to bid my loyal followers and blog readers farewell. I have enjoyed sharing my thoughts, feelings, and experiences of my journey with all of you.

I will return to London soon and resume my studies at Oxford. I look forward to revisiting the classrooms and learning more new material. If I could leave you now with one word of advice, it would be this:

"Education is the best provision to the journey to old age."
Aristotle

This happens to be my favorite quote of Aristotle's because it is so very true and important. Striving for education keeps the mind and body young. Always strive to learn and be grateful for opportunities to do so!

Goodbye!

Welcome to Canterbury

We finally arrived in Canterbury today after a long and grueling journey and proceeded immediately to the shrine of St. Thomas á Becket.

We all paid our respects to the wonderful man who gave of his life in a most terrible way for what he believed in. It was a very solemn afternoon and a very quiet and reflective moment for all of us. Seeing the shrine today made all the trials and tribulations of the journey worth it.

This experience helped me realize the importance of standing up for your beliefs. If you feel strongly about something, never give up on that belief regardless of the persecution you receive. As I have quoted Aristotle many times, I will leave you for now with a quote of my own:

"Do as you believe and believe what you do. No matter the punishment, you will never regret your actions."

- The Oxford Cleric

A Common Bond

We have made great progress toward the ultimate goal of our journey. That is to say we are nearing Canterbury and the shrine of St. Thomas á Becket.

When the journey began, I was excited at the proposition of traveling with such a diverse group of people. However, I soon realized I had little in common with any of them and the journey soon became miserable. I had no one to share my thoughts or concerns with. As the days progressed, I learned more about each of the other travelers and found some to be very likeable. Others were hard to deal with daily but I have come to understand and respect each of my companions more.

While all thirty-one of us have different views, beliefs, and professions, I have come to the realization that we all have one thing in common: our quest to the shrine.

I started on this journey feeling that all members of the traveling party had their priorities mixed up....except myself, but I now understand that no one is perfect. I may not get along with everyone but I do have this journey in common with them.

Bobbe-up-and-doun

We are here in Bobbe-up-and-doun, a city close to Canterbury. I am very pleased that we are resting here. The people in this city are very friendly to us, and told us that many pilgrims stop here to rest on their voyage to Canterbury.

In this city is a leaper hospital, the Hospital of St. Nicholas. Patients from the hospital support themselves by displaying a slipper that St. Thomas a Becket wore. I highly doubt that they actually had St. Thomas a Becket’s slipper, however, I felt the need to take pity on the inmates, so I donated a shilling. I also had a chat with the leapers, and they are seemingly more intelligent than half the pilgrims I am traveling with to the shrine. I am stating this because people tend to stereotype the leapers and I want it known that they are people too.

We are so very far from home, and I worry that I will never catch up on my reading. I think my social skills have improved over the course of this trip, and I am rather proud of our group’s progress, both in miles and mentally. Speaking of miles, this town has very poor roads, and I dread continuing on tomorrow. In spite of that, I am very anxious to be so close to the shrine of St. Thomas a Becket! Unfortunately, I must be going now, as the Wife of Bath is calling.

My Good Friend The Summoner

Today was quite a day. I ran into a good friend, the Summoner, who told me all about his relationship issues. He was indeed in “love” with this young mistress of whom I do not know. I tried not to laugh, but I simply could not help myself.

I tried to respect his feelings, as he told me about his encounter with this young lady. The Summoner actually thought she would say everything he wanted her to say, for example calling him “Hot Stuff”.

I'm sorry for laughing...the Summoner is indeed a good friend of mine, but hearing him get shut down was too priceless not to laugh about. Honestly, what woman in their right mind would stoop so low as to call a man “Hot Stuff?" Well I must go, for I am late for my readings. Farewell.

Storm of the Year

Tonight, I write to you from under a leaking makeshift shelter. Earlier this evening, I realized that our group is not as diverse as I originally thought.

The skies were a horrid color, to begin with. When we awoke, we ate in silence, just to listen to the horrid thunder that grumbled like the underworld's belly. Dark greys mixed with a strange yellow...and I could immediately tell that we were most definately in for a storm.

But what we got was not a storm...it was more of a disaster. The rains were up to our horses' ankles after only mere moments starting out again. They became frightened, and we made a joint decision to take them up to higher ground.

Thunder ripped the earth, and lightning tore at the sky. Even though I risk sounding morbid, this sight was fantastic. We were all soaked to the bone, and again, I will have to dry my books...but what I gained from this experience was beneficial not only to myself, but in my opinon, to the entire group as well.

We all pitched in to help in the effort of making a little shelter for ourselves high atop a hill. I wasn't able to help that much...but I did deduce the proper method of making a shelter for everyone. In all honesty, I felt pretty...special.

Now soaked, a little hungry, and enjoying a nice, soggy chapter of Aristotle, I feel quite at ease.

Now if you'll excuse me...I believe our delicious smelling meal is ready!

Adieu until further notice.

The Night I met the Knight

Although we have heard the Knight’s tale, I still wondered if I really knew the Knight. All my wondering stopped tonight because I had the chance to meet him.

The Knight and I had a rather intellectual discussion about our trip. We have determined that few others of our intellect are among us. As the day went on, the Knight told of many heroic tales where he triumphed and conquered all. The stories were quite interesting, however, by the end of the day, my ear was weary from hearing them. All the tales had the same plot, that is, until he told of one particular tale.

Yes, even the honest, noble Knight has a secret. He told a tale of love, and by no means was it courtly love. Before the dignified knight became a knight, he had a special someone. The young squire was faced with a decision and had to choose between love and justice. If the squire did not become a knight, he would disgrace his family and kingdom, but if he chose knighthood, he was guaranteed honor and respect from all. And this young squire chose to continue his training and leave his love behind. Although he told the tale as if it was not his, a tear ran down his cheek. I knew that this was the Knight’s secret and I have the utmost respect for him.

Night is coming to an end, and the journey will be continuing in a few hours, so I must go and get some reading done.

The Journey Continues......

Today was a fairly uneventful day on our journey to Canterbury. In fact, it was the most “normal” day of travel we have had to this point. It was the ordinariness of this day that made it special.

Something was in the air today because for the first time we started our travels, NO ONE fought at all. The typical sees several minor squabbles between certain people who don’t see eye to eye. It didn’t happen today; everyone got along.

The weather was also perfect today! In any other circumstances this would seem like just an average day, but the beautiful weather and the interaction between the twenty-nine of us traveling made the day extraordinary.

Dr. Doofus

I had the pleasure of meeting the doctor today. Or did I? He explained his methods of diagnosing and treating his patients, and I must say I feel they are very skeptical.

Horoscopes and the stars are his main method of his expertise. Ha. What a joke. By studying at Oxford, I probably know more about his profession than him! This man is an absolute fraud and anyone who pays him for his “knowledge” is being scammed. Anyone can use the stars and horoscopes to guess an ailment or a cure.

A word of advice to anyone needing medical treatment: AVOID DR. DOOFUS!!

The Story of the Miller

Although I find the Miller repulsive and distasteful, I must admit that his story today was rather entertaining.

The appalling Miller told of the time he danced on top of the table at some seedy tavern while singing "99 Mugs of Ale" in his loudest voice. He said they escorted him from the tavern before he reached ten. In spite of this, the Miller continued the song at the door. He is somewhat of a lunatic. I almost laughed out loud, but I stuffed my face in my book to muffle the giggles. This was a failed attempt, as the Miller saw my smile, and patted me on the back saying "You're not too bad after all, Kid." I guess he's not what he seems. I still do not appreciate his screaming in my ear, but I now have a funny friend.

I must go relax and get rid of my headache from the Miller. What a friend...

Another day, another shilling.

Today has been a rough day. Considering I constantly have to concentrate on riding this horse, I haven't been able to read my books at all. I mention that I miss reading to my traveling party, and all they do is laugh.

They truly do not understand the value of learning from great works written in past years. I feel as if my knowlede is slowly draining away, because there are very few knowledgable people here to hold a conversation with.

What looked to be a good idea is turning into a terrible mistake. I need to read, and soon...I must regain my sanity.

The Tension Builds

Today, I hope everyone can tell why I stay secluded with my books throughout my days.

I had a nervous breakdown from all the commotion in the group, today. I'm afraid that there is a lot more drama than I imagined earlier in our travels. I cannot stand the Wife of Bath any longer...I think I need to ride with someone else for awhile. I told her that I was not interested in women and that I took more interest in my books. That caused a slight uproar with her.

I truly miss studying all day. It seems as though the Miller is getting louder as the journey progesses, as he rode behind me in line today. His voice and vulgar language offended me greatly. I had a few choice words for him, but even though I'm a thoughtful argument, his voice overshadowed mine. Needless to say, I lost that battle.

Yes, it was quite the day, but we have all settled our differences now. I am sure these people appreciate the fact that I do not talk much.

I must study and try to find a cure for a loud mouth. I hope I find it soon; that way, I can finally put some restless mouths at ease.

Are we there, yet?

For the things we have to learn before we can do them, we learn by doing them.-- Aristotle.

This journey, in some ways, has been very educational. Even though my books have become very...soggy...by now, I am pleased that they haven't run so badly that I cannot read them. After all, my dear friends have helped me pay for both them and my education.

I must admit, I am not a rich student like many at Oxford are. Even though I've been...advanced on by Bath's Wife, yelled at by the Miller until my ears went sore, and been told that I've got an incurable disease by our dear Physician, I HAVE learned a great deal about just how different people really are.

Over and over again, I must assure myself that not all people are as I am. Some are uneducated, some are simply strange, and some are even more righteous than the ones from the church. I've come to begin understanding the human nature in a great way.

Now if you'll excuse me, I believe the Miller has roused into another fetching...tavern story once again.

Adieu until futher notice!

Corrupt!

“We are what we repeatedly do.”
Aristotle

I find The Pardoner a very appalling man. Today he rode beside me and I got to know him and his despicable profession better. I cannot believe he takes pride in cheating people out of their money.

He explained that he sells pardons to sinners so they can be forgiven for their sins. I don’t believe this is necessary at all....It is merely a business practice. However, The Pardoner makes a living in this cheating.

As I have gotten to know him better, I now realize that he does not even realize the wrong in what he does anymore because he has become so used to this crafty and cheating nature. To those who do not typically act this way in personal dealings, it is embarrassing to be associated with those who do.

This made me think of the above quote of Aristotle I studied in a class at Oxford. Learning more about the Pardoner made me realize that this is indeed true. Since he has become accustomed to cheating those he sells pardons to, he does it no with no remorse and doesn’t think about the wrong he is doing.

It is very sad :(. The whole state of the Catholic church is very sad....

Until tomorrow,
The Clerk

This is the journey that never ends

What a journey this has been, and it’s only been six days. With every ache and pain, the days seem to become longer. My company and I seem to be wearing rather quickly, and this rainy weather isn’t helping matters. Some people are beginning to wear my nerves thin.

The Miller speaks very loudly; so much that he has frightened his horse on many occasions. Try running after a horse in knee-deep mud. I’ll be the first to tell you, it is not easy. Not only is the Miller loud, but also his language is so fowl it could scare the devil back to the underworld. Oh, but he is not the only one that is irritating me.

The Wife of Bath is… well, lets just say she thinks she is rather charming and quite the catch. If she touches me one more time, I swear my voice will rival that of the Millers. She seems to be having a grand time flirting with me. I wish she would just leave me to my one and only love... my books, as they seem to be the only thing that understands me. Yet, she doesn't understand that. She keeps telling me I need a woman in my life. No thanks. however, she is not the worst.

Out of all the travelers, I would have to say that the Summoner and the Pardoner are the most obnoxious. They have created an atrocious song that I find very annoying. The lines are very repetitive and the lyrics, I fear, are now stuck in my head! "This is the journey that never ends; it just goes on and on my friends. Some people started going there, not knowing why they went and they'll continue going there forever just because...." Oh my! Oh dear! How will I ever get this wretched song out of my head? Hopefully reading will help!

I'm off to study and rest a while before we head out for the day. I'll keep you posted on my progress because this is the journey that.... where is my head? I must be going now.

The tale of all tales...My tale

Today was my day to tell a story to the other travelers, as this was what all of us have been doing to keep busy during the long days of the journey. I told a tale that I learned from a close friend of mine who is also a clerk.

The tale was about a noble man who has to marry right away. He is told to keep the bloodline by marrying a noble woman, but the noble man refuses, as he believes nobility does not matter and he should be allowed to marry as he pleases. The man plans his wedding and goes to the poorest man in the city to ask for his daughter's hand in marriage because she was beautiful in virtue. She accepts the proposal and tells him she will never disobey him.

Nonetheless, he feels the need to test his new wife. He takes away her children and asks for a divorce, all to test her obedience. The man proceeds to bring back his children, and is "going to wed his daughter", but no one knows it is his daughter. Everyone thinks she is beautiful and it is a good idea for the lord. Through all the trials, the woman stayed true and did only as the king pleased. If I do say so myself, it is one of the better tales as we all love a trying love story.

Yes, that was the story in a nutshell. Speaking of nutshell, I'm rather hungry...we should be stopping soon to eat.

Smart and Nerdy!

Ever since the Squire taught us to Crank' Dat Squire Boi, I have become captivated by the sophisticated lifestyle of the gangsta. The dance inspired me to write a rap about my life...the life of the White and Nerdy....

They see me reading my red books
I know they’re thinking I’m so Smart and Nerdy

Think I’m just too Smart and Nerdy
Think I’m just too Smart and Nerdy
Can’t you see I’m Smart and Nerdy
Look at me I’m Smart and Nerdy

First in my class at Oxford, I’m a true nerd
Got skills, a champion at anything with words
Mr. Aristotle is my favorite philosopher
I’m famous cuz of the gangsta G. Chaucer
I don’t ever speak, to the contrary
You’ll find that my mouth’s quite stationary
Most of my books are red as cherry
They don’t all fit in my library

I’m nerdy to the extreme
I’m whiter than sour cream
I use big words, do cross words
Got thinking skills you never seen
Only question I don’t find easy
“Do I like Aristotle or Socrateezy?”
Spend every weekend with my nose in my books
People always give me funny looks because…

They see my reading my red books
I know they’re all thinking I’m so Smart and Nerdy

Think I’m just too Smart and Nerdy
Think I’m just too Smart and Nerdy

But now I roll with the gangstas
Cause I know how to dance to the hip hop beats

Youuuuuuuuuuuuuaaaaa

Today was a most interesting day on our journey. The Squire, Breezy S Baby as I like to call him, taught us all to “Crank Dat Squire Boi”.

It was odd to see all the people of the church dancing along to this hip-hop beat. After he taught us the dance, I couldn’t stop crankin’ it all day. In fact, we didn’t travel very far because we kept stopping to do the dance.I was the best at the dance and The Squire told me I am almost as gangsta as him now!

That is all for today....I need to go read some of my Aristotle books to discover what a gangsta is. And make sure to visit the squire's blog so Youuuuuuu can learn to crank it.

Poll of the Philosophers

I have posted a poll on the left side of the screen where one can vote for the greatest philosopher.

As you may have guessed, I voted for Aristotle because he is obviously the greatest philosopher to ever set foot on this wonderful earth. However, I am slightly interested in knowing whom other people idealize and think of as the greatest philosopher. I'm overwhelmed as to how anyone would believe that other philosophers are better than Aristotle.

I would like to get an accurate depiction of who the general population believes to be the greatest philosopher, as this is a study I need for one of my highly esteemed classes at Oxford. So, if you would be so kind, VOTE! It will be a great help to me.

I must go now and study, but don't forget to vote for the best philosopher.

How about a test of knowledge?

Greetings, my friends. I've stumbled upon a most intriguing test. Being a student, I've studied many subjects, and read countless books. Do you care to test your knowledge? If so, click the link at the top of my page to a stunning little quiz. Follow each of the questions, and think hard. Some of these may be a little difficult, especially if you haven't studied as hard as I have. I don't expect you to do as well as I have...but give this a go anyways. You'll have fun, and you may learn something in the process.

I've already taken this test, and naturally, I scored quite well. So test your knowledge...especially if you are one of my more uneducated companions.

April Showers....May Flowers?

“ All men by nature desire knowledge.”
Aristotle
I have studied the philosophy of Aristotle at Oxford, and I am very intrigued by him. I have read in excess of twenty books about him and his teachings. In fact, they're all with me...and soaked...because it is raining.

While I am a man of thought and not of speech, the same cannot be said for the rest of the travelers. Some speak of nothing but gossip and meaningless stories from the past. They do not seem to speak and inquire with a need to gain knowledge, something I pride myself in.

This made me think of the above quote and forces me to remind myself that deep down all of these people are like me in a way...they have a need to gain knowledge and enjoy learning. Every day, I hope to teach them a little more about myself and the philosophy of my life from my soaked books. I hope it works out.

My life...as a nerd.

Salutations! I suppose you all are wondering who I am. I'm known as many things...Student, Clerk...Nicholas...But you can call me the Oxford Cleric. It's a rather long name to call someone by, but I'm sure you can get used to this if you truly try.

I am embarking on a journey with twenty-nine others to Canterbury to view the Saint Thomas a’ Becket shrine. I believe that this will be a most educational pilgrimage.

In this month of April, our journey begins. I can safely say that there are many…intriguing characters that I’m traveling with. However, I’ve my books of Aristotle to keep me company. I fear I must cut this introduction short…the Miller has frightened his horse with his own voice, and we must run after it. Our journey starts soon. So farewell until I have time again!