As Catholics at Loras
College we have a sense of justice and charity that must be given to the
surrounding community. We recognize that we are fortunate to be at this
college, and some people are not so lucky. Rather than focusing on ourselves,
we realize that we must go out into the community and provide charity for the
less fortunate. Simply focusing on ourselves and the life that we live is not
enough, and as Catholics we recognize this. We strive to help others and do our
best to provide justice where it is needed.
At the same time, this
Catholic identity can hinder or inhibit student development. Sometimes as
Catholics we tend to focus on our own views and perspectives and see other
people's beliefs and decisions as incorrect ones. Often times we don't put
ourselves in their shoes; we don't understand their beliefs or we think they
are wrong.
Finally, I think that
Loras has given me many tools that will help me serve my community in my
service project. They have given me the ability to understand the viewpoints of
people whose background may be different than my own. Using this ability I will
be better equipped to not only understand what someone may be going through,
but I will also be able relate to them and try and help them. I have also
gained knowledge in many different fields as a result of the Liberal Arts
program, and thus am able to help serve the community in a variety of ways.
Austin- I couldn't agree more with your last paragraph. I too believe that the Liberal Arts education provided here has allowed me to understand different viewpoints that I would not otherwise encounter. As for your first few points, I agree that Catholics may have a sense of superiority. Also, I think that Loras College does emphasize the need for community service and helping the less fortunate. However, I would like to know your opinions on how the college has specifically done that either for you directly or how you have seen it. Whether they be student organizations or other personal experiences, I am simply curious how you have seen and lived it here at Loras.
ReplyDeleteHey Austin,
ReplyDeleteNice article and I agree to the most of it. I believe we are the fortunate and we should be more willing to share with ones who are not as lucky. When you mention the hindrance of Catholic identity on student development by viewing "other people's beliefs and decisions as incorrect ones", can you provide an example of what you have witnessed or experienced?
Thanks!