Joyful Learning

Some people say that College leads to a good job, and others affirm that College is self-discovery in one's life. So, how did I traverse a collegiate path? How did I conclude what I wanted to learn? The answers are related to joy and energy.

Today, potential college students answer these questions using AI-influenced job forecasts and economic trends. It is a sure thing to jump-start a college career, right? Sometimes, graduates later discover that the status quo has interfered with a good education.

Most agree that what brings workers joy and energy in the workforce has little to do with job forecasting before College. Instead, the question is, "What brings me joy and energy now?"

Reading Scripture and helping others find their faith bring me joy and energy. So one day I asked myself, "How do I learn more about helping others via Bible stories?"  I sought answers by volunteering at my parish. It would be an excellent way to get some answers. I quickly discovered that discussing biblical topics helps people in their lives.

Later, I wanted to learn more. So, I enrolled in various ministry certification programs at my Diocese. These certifications were designed to teach the faith. Here, I was enthralled with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church. It was a "real-world education". This means I learned about my life, society, and the moral implications of both. As I matured in my faith, I appreciated “good thinkers” such as Jesus Christ, Saint Thomas More, Saint Augustine, and Saint Pope John Paul II, who all influenced my outlook in life, especially in my marriage.

Shazam! I knew what I wanted to learn in College: to help people, think well, and contribute to God Talk!

I chose to study theology and sociology. So, I enrolled in an exceptional Catholic College. Much like monastic living, communal and stemming from the revelation of Jesus Christ, the College provided a life course in truths. Theology offered "faith seeking, understanding, and acting in pursuit of our goal." (Anselm of Canterbury, d.1109) This goes beyond the textbook and builds relationships with others and our Creator. Sociology teaches solidarity with humanity (mainly the marginal) and how to respond to social issues with deliberate thought.

At graduation, I learned that the world needs more people willing to think well. My goal is to aid humanity, not burden it with its skirmishes, relativism, economic status, or injustice. Today, I strive to work harder than ever on the role of faith communities in societal transformation. I am also focused on researching the impact of ministry structure on Christian practices in America.

One thing is sure: With my degrees, I won’t be wealthy, but more importantly, I will make a difference in the lives of people around me. Theology equipped me to resist the pull of social status. Still, related sociology has helped me help others by empathizing directly.

In my choice to learn, I discovered to do something well and relinquished the urge to go to College to get something.