CURRENT MISSION

Currently studying sustainable architecture. Am intersted in physics, agriculture, aquaculture, sustainable cities, and spirituality.

ABOUT ME

Hello! Thanks for taking the time to read a little bit about me. I hope it`s not too much! Let`s get right to it:

I studied physics in college because I wanted to know the most basic statements human beings can make about reality. My study of physics lasted five years, during which time I was lucky enough to land a scholarship to study physics in Europe. Towards the end of college I began to lose interest in physics, but my desire to continue to grow and learn has taken me in other directions.

Throughout most of college I didn't understand the true nature of the social structure in which I was (and am) enmeshed. I didn't understand the nature of human power, how collectivities functioned, the role of specialization of labor, of money, etc. etc. This lack of understanding manifested itself (and still does, to a degree) in unease and ennui. To free myself from this ignorance as best I can I've done a lot of reading. Some of my favorite authors, to name a few, are Thomas Merton, Simone Weil, Aldous Huxley, and Jacque Ellul. There really are only a few people who I've found that have a good grasp on modernity. These are some of the best. I also undertook an independent study of economics, which I found helpful, though I haven't studied this topic in some time.

I am a big believer in nonviolence, though I don't see the issue in black and white. I see our current corporation-dominated economy as extremely harmful and destructive. I believe that driving as little as possible, using little electricity, and eating organic food, are important, though being kind is the most important thing. I worked on an organic farm for about a year, and in other ways I try to live ethically (though it is hard). I find myself dependent on the very organizations I deplore.

I'm an environmentalist at heart. I feel that all living creatures deserve our care and consideration. I try to be optimistic. Still, I feel that things in this world are very wrong and sometimes it gets me down.

I like to play music, ride my bike, and play raquetball. I also like to hike and I've sewed some of my own backpacking equipment, though it certainly looks like I sewed it myself! Those are a few of my hobbies. That`s it for now. You`ll find out more if I surf with you!

~Peter

PHILOSOPHY

Nonregligious spirituality, inspired by Catholic and Eastern mystics, promoters of nonviolence, and nondogmatic spiritual approaches (like Zen and 12-step programs)

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

HOW I PARTICIPATE IN COUCHSURFING

Haven`t yet had my first couchsurfing exprience.

Interests

• architecture
• dining
• organic food
• reading
• music
• guitar
• trumpet
• cycling
• hiking
• backpacking
• agriculture
• economics
• teaching
• mathematics
• physics

Music, Movies, and Books

Authors: Thomas Merton, Simone Weil, Jacque Ellul, Dorothy Day

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

Transsiberian railway, traveled South America, taught children!

Teach, Learn, Share

I can teach trumpet and some guitar (though I don`t have my instruments with me). I`m also a great physics and math tutor.