Over
the past couple of years, and definitely in this class, I have been thinking
more about the meaning of life and my purpose in it. Until three years ago, I
was a very devout Christian, both a religious and spiritual person. Listening
to my classmates talk about their faith makes me feel kind of warm inside,
reflecting on my college days. After I graduated college, however, I began to
question my faith. First, I drew closer to it, and then, further away. While I
could not make myself become a Christian again, I was left feeling lonelier in
times of need and wishing that I had a strong faith to comfort me. I now
realize that I was missing a huge aspect of my being: spirituality. I was not
religious anymore, but it did not mean that I could not still have spirituality.
I
believe that spirituality and one’s life philosophy are very much
interconnected. My spirituality includes kindness, compassion and forgiveness
of others. This leads me to have a life philosophy similar to the Dalai Lama,
which is one where we all try to live peacefully and help one another (Corey
and Corey, 2008). This belief is also a reason I have chosen school counseling
as my profession. It is a way that I can use my strengths to help many people.
Embracing
diversity is extremely important for us. We need to assist kids in becoming
tolerant humans who reject stereotypes and choose to get to know others
personally instead. Sadly, in my High School, self-segregation and racism were
prevalent. There were two cafeterias: a white one and a black one. I also heard
frequent racist jokes and saw people wear very offensive shirts without giving
any thought about how it could be hurtful to others. I wish that our guidance
counselors had fostered greater acceptance in our student body. And, honestly,
I am regretful that I was not more vocal about it.
Lastly,
I was extremely moved by Tralana’s powerful presentation. I am stunned at how
much she has overcome and it is a very sturdy testament to drama therapy that
she was able to use it to progress through her challenges. Her “stripes” are
also relevant to the text this week. Corey and Corey (2008) suggest that we
find similarities we have with others who are different than us and Tralana can
do that in a very personal way. If anyone can relate to the kids we will be
working with, she certainly can and I know that it will help her as a guidance
counselor!
Corey, G., & Corey, M.S. (2008). I
never knew I had a choice: Explorations in personal growth
(9th
ed.). Belmont, California: Thompson Brooks/Cole. ISBN: 9780495602293.
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