Fostering a learning environment with a simple message

By Les Ferguson, Jr.

Columnist

Three different graduates spoke for a few minutes at my youngest son’s recent high school graduation ceremony. There were the normal salutatorian and valedictorian speeches, plus one more towards the close of the ceremony. It was a well-thought-out commemoration of accomplishments that acknowledged this rite of passage.

I don’t remember which speaker it was, but one took me back to school, set me in my chair, and delivered a sagacious message I needed to hear. It was incredibly well thought out.

I concede that most parents of high school graduates have lived a while. But I suspect I was the oldest parent of a graduating senior there. Seriously, I run with the almost-retired and barely-retired crowd. I have lived a fruitful life thus far and hope it continues for many years.

I’d also like to think that, along with longevity, I’m well-educated and well-adjusted. I can continue to serve and mentor, particularly to folks younger than me.

But that night? That message? As I’ve already mentioned, I was taken to class and schooled. I learned at least two things. One was the message itself. The other was a much-needed reminder that I can learn from anyone at any age. Indeed, wisdom is not the sole property of those who are older.

And the message I heard (and wrote down immediately) was simple and quite profound:

Show up.

Pay attention.

Ask questions.

Never give up.

Those are words of wisdom for new graduates going off to school, entering a trade, or joining the military. Some of us graduated years and years ago, and the message is still powerfully wise for our jobs, learning, and life itself.

The preacher in me can’t help but make this application: what a difference it would make if we approached our marriages, families, churches, and communities with this simple message of wisdom.

Show up.

Pay attention.

Ask questions.

Never give up.

I have great hopes for our futures, especially when we heed the wisdom we’ve received.

As the Apostle Paul tells us, “Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk — not as unwise people but as wise — making the most of the time, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:15-16 CSB)

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