The story...
I remember my older sister teaching me how a letter in a math equation represented a quantity that could vary or have only one possible correct answer. Initially, I rejected the idea that a math equation could contain letters - "come on, you can get it, it's easy." I eventually did get it. In fact, I got it before the rest of the kids in my class were even introduced to the idea. Yes, I was something - the pride of life.
My brain was now "wired" to better understand what a variable was and that there were relationships between many things. I took math all the way through differential equations and applied linear statistical models - it wasn't easy but I made it through many new ways of thinking that helped me to model and solve problems within complex systems. I better learned some of the equations that govern how our reality works - the way He designed it. I learned to design experiments, work problems through groups with Six-Sigma, and eventually took on responsibility for a chunk of the body of knowledge as a professor. "Cite your sources." "What's the basis of your claim?" "Record your assumptions." "I don't care about your opinions - give me the facts." "Popular Mechanics is not a peer-reviewed journal - you can't cite anything from that periodical." Eventually, most got it too.
I've moved on from my professor role. I haven't taught a class, mentored a fledgling researcher, or served as a journal article peer-reviewer for over five years. Some question how I could work so hard along a life path and then go in a new direction. My new path, or life purpose, is to become a better man and community member who walks closer and more humbly with God in Christ. It seems my eyes are focused more on others and my heart leans closer towards eternity - that's a good place to be.
The only church in town will represent the community who are encouraged to live out the phase of life that they're actually in. People in the later phases will show respect and dignity to people who are walking through a phase they've previously lived through.
Just for today...
"Blaming my discomfort on outside events can be a way to avoid facing the real cause - my own attitudes. I can see what is happening in my life and take responsibility for my response." Courage to Change (p. 171)
"As I understand the difficult task of facing myself and my faults. I will guard against self-justification and self-righteousness." One Day at at Time (p. 171)
"I'm all set; Life's a bore - Engage again; Tired and sore."
"Made to work; Yes I am - Seeing more; Trusting Him." Am I a Poet?