LIfelong Learning

Lifelong Learning. What does that mean? 

Until recently, I thought of it as the “eternal student,” always in school with a wall covered in degrees. When I was growing up, our home teacher’s son was going for a third or fourth degree. When I asked why, I was told he loves school, and loves to learn. I couldn’t comprehend wanting to go to school a single day longer than required. The thought of choosing to go and then PAYING for that privilege was beyond me! 

A few years ago, I decided it was time to continue my education, and went back to school. One of the most important things I have learned from both my professional and educational career is that there are some things that can’t be taught in a classroom or boardroom. 

I have been blessed to work in an environment where professional development is strongly encouraged. I have had several mentors who have taught me basic tasks, as well as more complicated duties. Each position I have held has taught me more about the field of management and how to lead others. 

This training has been invaluable, however there are more important things to learn. Some of life’s most important lessons have to be experienced. The past two years have been full of these lessons. 

What have I learned? 

Compassion for a friend going through a difficult time. 

Love and forgiveness toward someone who has hurt me.

Judge not, lest ye be not judged.

Fake it 'til you make it! Put one foot in front of the other and keep going- it will be worth it someday. 

The only one whose opinion really matters is the Lord.

I’m not alone. My Father in Heaven has a plan for me and has laid out the path. I may not like it, or think I’m ready for it, but He knows me better than I know myself.

Those are a few of the most important lessons I have learned. Most were very painful, all of them were worth it.  As I was thinking about this blog, one of my favorite songs began playing. The words are so fitting, telling the story of those who have learned from their struggles. 

Hilary Weeks- “Beautiful Heartbreak”  

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyX-I-um5Kk

I had it all mapped out in front of me
Knew just where I wanted to go
But life decided to change my plans
And I found a mountain in the middle of my road
I knew there was no way to move it
So I searched for a way around
Broken-hearted I started climbing
And at the top I found

Every fear, every doubt, all the pain I went through
Was the price that I paid to see this view
Now that I'm here I would never trade
The grace that I feel and the faith that I find
Through the bittersweet tears and the sleepless nights
I used to pray He'd take it all away
But instead it became
A beautiful heartbreak

I never dreamed my heart would make it
And I thought about turning around
But Heaven has shown me miracles
I never would have seen from the ground
Now I take the rain with the sunshine
Cause there's one thing that I know
He picks up the pieces
Along each broken road

Every fear, every doubt, all the pain I went through
Was the price that I paid to see this view
Now that I'm here I would never trade
The grace that I feel and the faith that I find
Through the bittersweet tears and the sleepless nights
I used to pray He'd take it all away
But instead it became
A beautiful heartbreak

Although I am in school, this is not where I am learning my most valuable lessons. I know that my Father in Heaven has much to teach me. I’ll do my best to learn His lessons.

 I am a lifelong learner.