"So, you're attending graduate school?" -My Response to Higher Education

sigh. 

If I could but have $1 for every time I've been asked, "What? You're going back to school?" that last few months, I'd have all my parking fees and books paid for completely.  no joke. :)

Seriously, what is your reaction when you hear of someone attending higher education? 

(I'm specifically thinking of public education, not Bible school.)

Can't think of what you'd say? Well, let me share a few I've heard the past few months...

"WHAT? If you were really a Christian and in-tune with God's Will, 

you would sacrifice for His work and not pursue a secular and worldly career at a public university. God doesn't bless those who reject His will."

"You should be content to serve God rather than chase after worldly careers and fame."

"Christian education is where the real contentment lies- and you're missing it."

"The public university is a dangerous place. There's...(whispered) gays everywhere, and you will

be affected! Your soul will suffer! You'd better beg God for mercy!"

etc. etc. etc. etc.  

I could go on for a while, but I'm assuming you're an intelligent individual

and thus able to read what I've written so far, and I won't bore you with more of the same.

(Note: I am not disrespecting any of the individuals who made the above comments.)

This is my third week of graduate classes, and just to report:

1) I am still a Christian

2) I feel that God is pleased with my life

3) God has worked out details for my schooling and continues to do so

and,

4) I am 'in His will' 

No way!

Here is my response to higher education from a Christian perspective, 

coming from someone who has already 

received a BA from a Bible College:

1) Christ asks, no commands us to be disciples. Right? And by definition, a disciple of Christ

is literally a 'little Christ.' In the words of C.S. Lewis, 

"Every Christian is to become a little Christ. The whole purpose of becoming a Christian is simply nothing else."

I love that. Really, I do. As Christians, we are truly representatives of Christ to the world, and everyone really.

2) Jesus was a student. Remember, when He was 12 and sat in the synagogue to learn about the Scriptures?

What about the verse, "Study to show thyself approved?" (2 Tim. 2:15) Jesus did not condemn education.

3) It appears that some Christians view any educational institution lacking the word 'Bible' or 'Christian' in the 

name as being 'of the devil,' or 'completely worldly.' How ignorant. 

Now, for my opinion:

1) I am literally sick and tired of Christian education (in general) having a 'bad rap' and reputation as being

second-rate, unprofessional, non-academic, archaic, etc. 

I'm sure you've heard of it described as such...I know I have. 

And, sadly, I'm sure you have heard of/seen institutions bearing the name of Christ 

that demonstrate these 'qualities.' It's truly saddening, and it's a disgrace to the name of Christ.

2) By completely rejecting the idea of 'professional education,' we as Christians

have cheated students. Just a little hint: holy shoddy is still shoddy. The foundation of 

"Christian Education" is, yes, Christ, but it's still 'education,' not Sunday School.

The educational system is intended to educate and instruct in areas of academia and character building, and

when coupled with a passion for Christ, is an absolutely beautiful thing! But leave out the 

passion for excellence in academics, and it's just glorified Sunday School. 

3) As a Christian, I believe that God has given each of us certain gifts, talents, and abilities that, 

when cultivated, can be used for His glory. I also believe that God expects me to represent Him

well, and to do my absolute best with what He has given me. 

That means I want to learn as much as I can to help teach others about music/piano, 

use it as a tool to bless others, and ultimately glorify God. Without concentrated practice, 

diligence, and instruction, this won't happen. So, to do my best with what God has given me,

I am attending a graduate music school, pursuing my MM in Piano Performance/Pedagogy,

and ultimately achieving a DMA in Piano Performance. 

All with God's approval, sanction, and my parents' blessing. :) 

So, there you have it- my philosophy of Christian Education in a nutshell. 

But, it all comes down to this: 

Don't ever give less than your very best back to God with the 

talents he has given you. Do your absolute, dead-level best

in your area, and leave the rest up to God. 

But always give your best.

Anything less is not only embarrassing,

it's also not pleasing to God.

And, since that's what life is all about- pleasing God- we should strive to please Him in education, too.
A few closing thoughts:

I am very thankful for the four years at Hobe Sound Bible College, where I learned

the 'foundations of faith,' philosophical views, and what I believe before coming to 

a secular university of 18,000 + students. Likewise, my dad and sister

did an online Biblical beliefs course together from GBS before she went to Bob Jones (a Baptist

university). That being said, it may not be wise for a Christian individual who is not solidly grounded in his/her faith to attend a secular university...take a Biblical beliefs class. Be ready to answer questions from people about your beliefs, and be a mature enough individual that you can be who you are, no matter where you are. 

I do not- and would not- live on campus at UNCG. I am a proud commuter, and 

most at the university know it by now. They've also picked up on the fact that I'm not a 

party-goer. Hmmm...wonder how that came across? :)

 Unitl next time...

God is great, God is good

I've done it again. 

That which I promised myself I would do at least once weekly, has become an unconquerable monster of once monthly. 

That which brings me joy has been replaced by a new sort of monster:

graduate school. gasp Oh yes. 

Well, enough with the dramatic soliloquy- but I really 

have survived my first 2 1/2 weeks of graduate school at UNCG School of Music.

And, besides the dreadful assignment last week in which I had to 

cite 200+ sources in turabian, I'm really loving it. 

I'm learning really great piano literature from a phenomenal professor.

Learning answers to questions I've had for a long time. (love that feeling.)

Making really good grades. (thank you, Lord.)

Hating Music Research Class. (it's to be expected.)

And thoroughly loving living my dream. 

So thankful to Jesus for helping to work out all the details! 

It's really incredible, and I'm so thankful for the opportunity to further my education.

That being said, my sister, Kimberly, is also embarking on her

own educational journey by beginning her BSN Nursing at Bob Jones University,

and plans to continue schooling to become a Physician's Assistant. 

Miss her like crazy, but very proud of her. 

I can't reiterate enough how extremely thankful I am for God 

working out details in my life recently. Things I thought I had planned/prepared

quite nicely, He thought differently. 

I've been living by the motto: "Don't confuse the will of God with the will of the majority." 

No matter how hard you or I try, there's no possible way to please absolutely everyone-

that's humanity for ya. However, I'm realizing this. 

If: 

1) God says do it

2) Parents support it

3) It just makes sense, and even if

4) A few people you highly respect just 'don't get it,' 

do. it.  

Don't let the opinions of a few keep you from doing what you should. 

It's hard.

Difficult.

Confrontational.

Uncomfortable.

Weird.

Embarrassing.

all of the above, but it brings peace with God, which is worth it. 

And, in the end, God's approval is what really matters anyways, right? right. 

I'm done with my soapbox :), just thought I'd 'throw that out there.' 

(food for thought, if you will.)

God is great, God is good. 

until next time...

e.d.

Dear parents/teachers...My series of 'ABC's for Educators:' Approachable.

I’ve often heard it said that teacher learns more the first year of teaching than the years spent in college combined. As I am concluding my first year of teaching, I can verify that statement!

When I began this year, I was (shall we say) ‘in the dark’ about a lot of areas concerning the teaching process. Including what exactly I would be teaching. That is, until the week before school. (Yes, as in ONE week.) So, I’m finishing up this year as, yes, the full-time K-12 Music Instructor. In addition to being a full-time Jr. High teacher in 7^th grade Math, NC History, and Jr. High Bible. *May I point out the obvious? I did not study to be a Jr. High teacher! However, allow me to make another obvious statement (I make quite a few of those): It is May, and I have survived the ride so far. J  (and enjoyed it.) 

*These comments/descriptions are not meant in any way as degrading to my place of employment, I am simply painting the scenario of my first year for you.

And, in addition to survival, I can again re-affirm my first statement: I feel as though I have learned more than my students. Over the next several blog posts, I will be sharing a few things I’ve learned. Preface: I am not claiming to be a seasoned authority on educational advice; I’m simply a teacher/grad. student who thrives on learning and sharing. J The things I share will not simply be applicable for teachers; I hope it will be informative for all of my readers. I have a few blog posts in the ‘draft’ stage that will be specifically for parents. Anyways, I hope you enjoy reading what I’ve learned this year!

The first part of this series will be what I call ‘The ABC’s of Educators.’ So, today I’ll start with ‘a.’

Approachable.

            This year I’ve learned and observed many things students expect (not simply want) from their teachers and authority. (Parents, peers, pastor, etc.) When raising/teaching children, battles must be wisely and carefully chosen. However, by simply being available and approachable, you, as the authority, teacher, parent, etc., will eliminate over 50% of coming battles. Approachable literally means to be ‘friendly and easy to talk to.’ Stop making predetermined outcomes and assumptions before hearing your student/child’s explanation, and actually listen to their ‘side of the story.’ (One of my ‘rules’ is that a student may ask/say anything as long as it is said with a correct attitude.) Even if the student/child is wrong in their opinion, he/she will feel mutual respect in knowing that a ‘big person’ actually took time to hear his/her story without being belittled, interrupted, or criticized.

            Let your kids know right off that you want to hear their ideas, opinions, and concerns. This also establishes a level of respect between parent/child, teacher/student, etc.

            Another terrific reason to be ‘friendly and easy to talk to’ is that as Christians, we are representatives of Jesus to others. Even little people (kids). It has been said that if you give a child a correct view/concept of God, you will give them the keys to the world. How then can we tell children that God wants to hear their prayers and concerns if we are not willing to do the same? Thought provoking, isn’t it? Therefore, if we: roll our eyes at their ideas, complain through the gritty story details, and judge without hearing the whole matter, it should come as no surprise when children struggle with talking to Jesus. I am not a parent, but I remember how pleased and special I felt when my parents expressed that they wanted to hear what I had to say.

           

What are ways you use to connect or communicate with your kids/students? I’d love to hear them!

Until next time. . .

Anniversary Antidotes

Today is mom and dad's 24th Anniversary! After 21 years of being exposed to other people's parents, and now being a teacher, I can honestly say a few things about our home:

We have a lot of fun together! Laughing is a daily routine at our house, and we much prefer having fun at home or simply being together over high-dollar entertainment.

Mom and dad's communication with each other makes the world go 'round. That's why Kim and I love it when mom and dad still take time to go on 'dates'. It makes our home a happier, more relaxed place. :) Enjoy the P.F. Chang's card, mom and dad! =)

Our home is full of love, laughter, honesty, blonde moments, Hogan's Heroes, and we revolve around reveling in the simple things in life.

Happy 24th Anniversary, Mom and Dad!