I have learned so much in the last 4 terms (half-way through the 4th), and the best thing education has given me is it has stimulated my curiousity and my passion for the world again. Although at times I find "it" (the world!) scary, or daunting, or caught up in and endless cycle of abuse and exploitation (blame the media--blame politics!) I at least feel like I can add my (2? 3?) cents to contribute something positive. Learning about the way things work makes looking at the world less daunting and overwhelming. I'm understanding the mechanics behind things, which helps immensely. Whereas before I was afraid and felt powerless (no to mention the fact that I was sick for a long while, which did not help my sense of self-efficacy...), I now hold a different perspective and that is one of advocacy, knowledge, intent and positivity. Learning has renewed my sense of power and efficacy. I can make educated (to the best of my present abilities, anyway) decisions, I can use my conscience, I can support things I believe in and who knows, hopefully when the journey of education comes to a "respite" (because it never really "ends"), I may even be of some tangible value to aid in healing the world around us. That is my hope.
I am humbled, and I am grateful. I feel thankful that I have been guided to this fore at this time in my life. I am ready.
"The teacher appears when the student is ready".
