I enjoyed reading this chapter. I can remember many times in my life where I questioned my philosophy of life and the values that I will hold true. We need clear ideals to which we can aspire and guidelines by which we can direct our actions (Corey and Corey, 2010). Without these guidelines, our lives will go astray. After all, what is the purpose of life without meaning?
I liked reading the responses to the question regarding the meaning of life. I have grown to develop my own meaning of life throughout the past 3 years. I believe that each one of us has a different meaning of life. For me, I know that my purpose is to serve children or adolescents by being a positive male role model. I feel that God has tested me with trials and tribulations. He has given me opportunities to choose to succeed or fail. I feel that He wants me to be an example to show that it doesn’t matter what life presents to you, you can overcome and achieve your dreams. I am proud to be that person in a child’s life.
It took me awhile to gain this understanding. I believe that maturity had a lot to do with it. I feel that my values as a teen and emerging adult centered on me. Selfishness and getting what I wanted were key components to my “happiness”. Reflecting on it now makes me feel a deep sadness because of the many loving friend and family relationships I ruined. It may have been because they did not like my choices or what I had to say. It was hard for me to accept another person’s opinion. It was even harder for me to change my values and beliefs at the time.
When my religious journey began in college, my ego began to deflate. I started to understand that my uniqueness, talents, and gifts were blessings granted by God. I began to understand that serving only myself wasn’t enough. Spirituality can help us get in touch with our own powers of thinking, feeling, deciding, willing, and acting (Corey and Corey, 2010). In my case, it was the kick in the butt I needed. It has led me to the place I am today.
As I grow in my faith, I grow as a person. My values have become more meaningful, and my purpose has been more appreciated. As a teacher in an urban environment, I see how values and beliefs can impact a child. I cannot tell you how difficult it is to teach children who have been raised by parents who have conflicting values. God has granted me patience to work with these children. At the same time, He has constantly showed me that these children appreciate me. He shows me this by their laughter and smiles. He shows me this by their progress and achievement. He shows me this by their growth as human beings.
Corey, G. & Corey, M. S. (2010). Your Body and Wellness. In Brooks/Cole (9th edition), I Never Knew I Had a Choice (106-131). Belmont , CA
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