The Institute of Hard Knocks
Which is more upsetting, not being accepted onto campus or not being able to get off of it?
Traditional marriage vows and life decision applications have the same expectational foundation and unspoken necessity … TO LIVE. Our daily experiences are what grow character, so the more fully we live, the more fully we grow.
Human-spirit sounds at times like an oxymoron but if you can accept (either subjectively, theoretically or conversationally) that “we” each have a vital life force, an inner being, then read on. Presumptively, we could have been schooled elsewhere but our father chose instead, to send us off to a tough boarding school, Earth’s Institute of Hard Knocks. Beautiful campus, but a long, tough curriculum.
Full emersion into change, challenges, temptations and failure promotes character development (or decay) so what else is needed to matriculate? Developing character to a productively rich status, requires the addition of three outside aides; 1) a good role model, 2) instructive insight from the right teacher’s lesson book, and 3) the vigilant oversight of a full time counselor. Each must be working with us independently and jointly to overlay a prescribed curriculum atop on-the-job experience. Cutting classes or prolonged playground activity guarantees an unproductive and unfulfilled long term “venture,” while diligent attendance, a diversified curriculum and knowledge gained from each assignment, yields well rounded life “adventures.”
Living is an integral part of our education, while education in turn makes living simpler. Acceptance first, participation second and then life application completes the course entitled, Live, Love, Honor and Obey 101. Start with kindergarten and then one day step off campus to help others who are paying the price of a delayed education.
Author – J.C. Calkins, March 24, 2010
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