May 13, 2002
Polishing The Soul
In memory of Daniel Montag
“I consider an human soul without education like marble in the
quarry, which shows none of its inherent beauties till the skill of the polisher fetches
out the colours, makes the surface shine, and discovers every ornamental cloud, spot and
vein that runs through the body of it.”
Joseph Addison
Each spring ushers in graduation
ceremonies throughout the country. For many,
it is only a brief respite between degrees while for others it signals the end of formal
education.
This past weekend we attended a graduation
for a friend who completed a degree in interior design.
It resembled most graduation gatherings with familiar decorations, but this party
was for a friend who has children similar in ages to our own: one in college and one in
high school. Between her responsibilities as
a mother, wife and her work outside the home, she had achieved her objective now
represented by a diploma.
Not long ago, my cousin’s husband in Illinois celebrated a
similar victory. When they were married, he
supported the family as an auto mechanic. His dream, however, was to become a police officer. So during his
precious spare time he trained and eventually realized that dream.
He continued his education and recently received a criminal justice degree.
Unfortunately, he fell ill a few weeks ago and was diagnosed with leukemia.
Last Friday, within two weeks of the diagnosis, he died at age of 39 from the
disease.
What an interesting weekend it turned out to be.
We honored our friend who went back to school to pursue her life’s calling and
reflected on others we know who demonstrated the courage to continue their education. We also were reminded that we are mortal and will not live forever, so
we must not put off manifesting our dreams or calling.
Reconciling the two invokes a sense of determination.
Going back to school might not be an option or choice for many.
I for one have thought about pursuing a Masters of Divinity to enhance what I am
doing with Awaken The Soul that would then compliment my business degree and years in
executive management. For right now, my
thirst for education is being satisfied with my reading and interaction with those who
read my messages. In this way I am continuing
my education informally to satisfy my curiosity for life.
As in the opening quote, I want to know my soul to the same extent
the polisher knows the marble being worked on. Education,
whether formal or informal, leading to knowledge helps illuminate the subtle aspects of
the soul that might otherwise go unnoticed.
With respect, acceptance, and love,
Richard
© Richard D. Olson and Awaken The Soul, 2002; Edited by Janice E. Olson