Life Long Learning

I have noticed that the term "Continuing Education" is being substituted with "Life Long Learning" in more and more professional environments. The difference is subtle, but significant. Continuing Education is precise -- it is usually focused upon one's current occupation. It implies a flow of continuity that is building upon one's previous educational experience. It indicates that one is dedicated to regularly seeking more information to apply to one's area of vocation. It keeps the mind fresh and in touch with changes or discoveries, and it provides a certain degree of assurance that we will be giving those we serve the most accurate information available.

Life Long Learning is broader, more free flowing. We notice of course, the mood set by alliteration ... Life Long Learning allows for no conclusion until we are no longer alive. It allows for broad curiousity and the freedom to engage in any learning process that claims one's attention. When we return from a Life Long Learning event, we are renewed in ways that may or may not apply directly to our specific profession. However, we can be assured that the profession will benefit from the fact that we have had time to stretch portions of our intellect or creativity that normally are at rest (or stagnant).

It amazes me how nourishing a week of Continuing Education can be. Anybody involved in ministry, whether a rostered person or a lay leader, exhibits good stewardship of gifts by scheduling time to blow the dust off old knowledge or receive new information. Regardless of the term used by the presenters (Continuing Education or Life Long Learning) we have the opportunity to build on our past education as well as to enter completely new areas of thought.

It is important to consider what happens during such a week with the attitude of life long learning -- Look for the comments or sights or experiences that initially seem irrelevant. They may be the seeds inviting us to new, broader territories of mind, heart and relationship.

What are some of your hopes and plans for your Life Long Learning?