It Is What It Is (or is it?)

I had a professor in college who taught me more that probably any other professor or teacher I ever had. She was my media ethics and communication law professor. One of the smartest people I have come across. She challenged us in everything we did. The challenge wasn't in remembering random facts - but rather to "think outside the box" and grow as a person. The biggest lesson she taught me can be summed up in a few short word - LIFE LONG LEARNING.

Ok, so she talked about that a lot, but when you're a college student going to class after class, does it really mean anything? The answer, for me at least, was not a whole lot. Now, that I'm out of college for a few years, I have come to really appreciate what she had to say.

Life long learning isn't about reading books to make you smarter. But, rather seeing things that happen in your life as opportunites to learn. I never envisioned a career in the music products industry. I was going to be in television news. Well, when things changed, I embraced this new challenge and am so completly fascinated by all the new things I am learning.

Learning extends beyond our careers though. I think we are better people if we have a genuine curiosity in the world around us. Experience new things - live life. You don't have to like everything you do, but it doesn't hurt to try new things. That's how you find out your interests and meet new people.

And speaking of people -- recently I came to a big conclusion. We're all different and think differently!! Who knew? Well, of course, I knew that. But, I found myself in a situation where I was pretty unhappy with the outcomes with a friend. So, I confronted them about it. It turned out to be a wonderful decision. That led to a discussion where some information was shared by both of us and I think because of that we both learned from each other. It's good to remember that all of us don't come from the same background and life experience. That it certainly something I had forgotten and hopefully now it's something I have placed into my consciousness.

Bring this back to Dr. Kennedy's thoughts on life long learning -- we've got to always look at look at the world around us with a different view and learn from things around us - that includes our careers, everyday happenings and espeically our personal relationships. Always look at things from another viewpoint. Our viewpoint isn't the only one out there. Perhaps knowing someone elses can help us grow - but more importantly help us grow WITH those around us.