humble beginnings

I can't believe I'm actually doing the whole blog thing . . . it's actually kind of exciting, though. freeing. exhilarating. breathtaking. incredible.
You don't have to tell me - for an English major, I'm not off to any sort of impressive start, am I? I would like to explain the title, though, for all of you who are saying to yourselves, "This is Greek to me!" Well, maybe that's because it is . . . Greek.
Arete is the Greek word for excellence, virtue, goodness, and all kinds of other good stuff. Here's a link to a site that explains it much better than me: http://www.wsu.edu/~dee/GLOSSARY/ARETE.HTM
I named my blog Arete, or Arete for Him, because I truly believe that what we dedicate our hearts and minds to in our everyday lives affects our relationship with Christ. The ancient Greeks had it right when they strove for this arete. Excellence and virtue might be a lofty goal, but it's worth it! In my own life, great literature, music, and other rich culture only help me grow in my faith. I think that these set us firmly on the path towards beauty, truth, and goodness, which ultimately lead to God.
Soooo, long story short, I want to devote this blog to good books, inspiring quotes, pictures, and anything else that I find keeps me on this path to arete. I hope you enjoy the ride!