This is my first blog and I'm not sure what to write about. Well, let me introduce what this blog site will contain. This blog is merely a reflection of what I've been contemplating throughout the day. As a political scientist, minister, theologian, wife, daughter and (at the urging request of my mother) soon to be mother:) there are a lot of topics of interest to me.
Right now I am at a crossroad in my life. Having completed a bachelor's degree and two masters now is the time for me to become a networking guru and find a school to complete my PhD. Yes! It's all about who you know when you're considering doctoral work; and it's understandable. I will keep everyone up to date about this process. So, for now, I am teaching at Shaw University as an adjunct professor. For Spring '09, I will be teaching African American Religion. This is exciting for me on many levels. Enganging and educating students about the involvement of African Americans in Religious Thought is a defining moment in my life. You see - I love to learn, I love to read, I love to think, and I love to teach. Teaching empowers me to study and read more. Teaching is something that I take seriously. Teachers must hold themselves accountable to their students. The student will only excell as much as a teacher prepares.
To educate as the practice of freedom is a way of teaching that anyone can learn. That learning process comes easiest to those of us who teach who also believe that there is an aspect of our vocation that is sacred; who believe that our work is not merely to share information but to share in the intellectual and spiritual growth of our students. To teach in a manner that respects and cares for the souls of our students is essential if we are to provide the necessary conditions where learning can most deeply and intimately begin (Bell Hooks: Teaching to Transgress. 1994: 13)
One of my favorite things about teaching is listening to students and how they perceive today's issues. So, of course, we've talked a bit about politics in the last few days. Everyone seems to support Obama, but I challenge the students consider their civic duties post-election day. This is my challenge for everyone involved in this historic election.
How are you going to continue your civic duties after November 4th? Whichever candidate is elected, we will need to continue being involved in politics. Will we return to our regular television schedules, less time with the family, working overtime to just barely pay the bills OR will we seek ways to help those around us? I'm interested in knowing how many will begin the rest of their lives...:) I personally believe my life has been hijacked by this campaign and ready for 12am, Wednesday, November 5th:)
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