The Fundamentals: Pt 2

Education, especially in America, is on the trend of putting more responsibility on the student. Teachers are the guiding forces, they simply give the materials and resources, allowing the students to direct and control their successes or failures. In the end they decide the reason they are there. To learn or to not learn, one way or another a lesson is being taught, whether the student realizes it or not. The motivation, goals, and prospects and ultimately what the student reaps from the class is left up to the individual. They can either capitalize on the knowledge and experience of the teacher or they can decide to blow it off, not reaching their potential.

Respecting education and teachers takes time, courage, and perseverance. Going to class, doing the work, reflecting on the assignment and discussions aren’t the only parts to obtaining an education. Participating in the class, with the other students, and engrossing themselves in the content is of utmost importance. The ability to immerse themselves into the coursework exhibits a sense of responsibility and respect. It is the innate feelings and determination that are instilled upon one and followed through with that determines the success or failure of each individual in all aspects of their lives.

In the Analects, Confucius once asked his disciples what would be their aspiration. While all of them answered in respect to their plans in government, Zeng Dian, an elderly follower, said he only wished to have an enjoyable outing in the late spring in the company of five or six friends, bathing in the river, enjoying the breeze, and singing on the way home (Analects, Chapter 11). Confucius sighed at this, and agreed with him. It is one of the rare moments in the Analects where we see the internal conflicts Confucius had. While he traveled from state to state trying to promote the proper way of government, he longed for a peaceful and quiet life, a life in which one can seek inner contemplation without the worries of the world. However, he also knew that without proper government, such a world of peace could not be in existence; therefore he had to carry on his work. It is a theme that resonates with scholars down the centuries, and a poetic imagery that evokes an ideal society of moral perfection, where everyone has his place, and everyone is content.

In retrospect, when considering where respect coincides with responsibility, what should be taken into account? Respect comes from within, an instinct that is instilled upon us and grows with us as we venture through life. It is who we are, how we treat others, and things in our lives. Responsibility on the other hand is more of a bad thing if we do not follow through. Responsibility in essence is something we attain, once we agree to something, such as a job. Looking at respect and responsibility together makes complete sense, when teaming it with education. With respect and responsibility, education is sure to follow. It takes both of these characteristics to become successful in the educational field.