Monday, May 11, 2009

Change, Learning and the Lifelong Learning Professional



OK, it's time for confession. Three weeks ago, the Lifelong Learning office at Louisville Seminary received the news that it was being cut in half. My job as Director of Lifelong Learning and Advanced Degrees was intact, but my colleague, the Programs Manager, was to be laid off in a reduction in force.

My first reaction was just that--a reaction. I was hurt and angry. I felt totally helpless to assist my colleague and hopeless about how I would continue these programs for which I have so much passion without a full time colleague. I felt my "position" was diminished by this move. I stayed angry and hurt for a couple of weeks, including a week of vacation--well timed for rest and reflection.

The turnaround did not come for me until last week with my prayer and support partners. We do a day long retreat together nine or ten times a year and last week was perfect timing. They worked me over pretty good and as they helped me get clear and straight about the situation, here's what I realized. I have to practice what I preach.

I'm the one who proposes that those engaged in lifelong learning need to ask themselves four questions:
  1. What has changed or what needs to change in ministry?
  2. What do I need to learn to meet the changing situation?
  3. How can I promote my own health and growth in a changing situation?
  4. Where can I find help or partners to get what I need?

Don't you hate it when your own words come back to haunt you!

Of course things change! Unfortunately they do not always change in directions we hoped. Certainly I'm not in charge of the changes in my life and work!

So instead of a reaction to the new situation --"I'm hurt and angry," I've moved with my friends' help to a response--"I'm learning." A learning mode is helping me be less helpless and more creative.