Learning Time

In my usual Saturday shopping rounds, I could not help but notice the crowd in the malls, bookstores and shoes stores with adults and children all scurrying around in last minute preparation for school. Traffic was unusually heavy and the parking lots near shopping centres and stores were filled. New books, bags, uniforms and various supplies - all in the flurry of back to school preparation.



The educational community comes together at this time as the stage has to be set. Parents, teachers and students alike all have their part to play. Parents must ensure that their children have all that is required to start a new year in school. Students must ensure that they follow instructions with regard to all that is needed for the institution they will attend. Teachers must prepare themselves intellectually, mentally and emotionally in order to empower the minds of the students with skills and knowledge for continued study or the world of work.



Challenges come from all levels. The church, the government ministry responsible for education, companies and service groups who offer scholarships and various bursaries speak to the need for increased success and ask for commitment at all levels. The shared desire of everyone is that the students will pursue excellence and display the right attitude that will foster this. Society cries out for change and a halt to the indiscipline and rebellion that seems to have a stanglehold on our nations' youth. The committed often appear to be few - but is this really so? What is really needed? Are these just the last days as some say ? Is this the 'generation of vipers' as our youths have often been described?



I recall the various aspects of Jesus' life that were identified when his growth was spoken of in St. Luke 2: 52 - "And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man". We see physical, intellectual, spiritual and social growth identified. I therefore challenge all involved in the educational community to help build these areas in the lifes of those we work with in whatever manner. This is what will make the difference. This is the complete package - all parts needed.



When our minds are renewed and empowered by the Holy Spirit and we remain in constant communinon with God, we learn how to live with our fellow man, we learn to take care of our bodies as we grow and also empower our minds. This task is not too great, let us all rise to the challenge, building ourselves so we can build others...it is learning time!