Kevin Murphy

Junior Morality

May 12, 2008

What I Really Learned Essay

This year has been a welcome change of pace for me in learning theology. In the Junior Faith and Morality classes we moved away from the standard study of the Bible and textbooks and were called instead to peer within ourselves for the answers often. While the tests and quizzes were standard for the most part in my opinion little else can be expected without making the tests into opinion papers. The class, however, were completely different. By the end of the year I honestly looked forward to attending theology class. The in class the discussions and material related to real life circumstances and it gave me direction in my life even though it wasn’t necessarily always stemming from Catholic teachings.

The first lesson that I would like to retain would be the “Jury Duty” activity. Before this, I would have thought that my class and myself would be for the most part aligned with one another. It showed that initial reactions can sometimes be misleading and that we have to look at variables such as intent, object, and circumstance. This made me, for once, slow down and think seriously about the outcome of my decision on everyone from the defendant and his family to the deceased’s family and so on. The activity also illustrates the diversity of thought within SLUH, which I think I have come to appreciate now more than ever. For many of us come from privileged households in the county or city, but I find it awesome that with such similar backgrounds we can have such strong, diverse opinions.

The second thing that I received was how to be a better person. The motto from Fr. Hagan that says “Seek Beauty, Seek the Truth” is powerful to me because it seems to say that life is always worth the struggle. In the Sermon on the Mount the greatest thing that I think Jesus was trying to tell us is that no matter what, if we come seeking forgiveness, we will be forgiven. This aspect of having open arms may in some way be a key to living happily. I love the fact that the “beauty” Fr. Hagan speaks of is found in others and you just have to reach out to experience. I believed I learned the awesome truth of this on my trip to Mexico.

The third thing that I will list but certainly not the final thing that I want to remember is the message of Randy Pausch. Pausch said, “It is better to fail greatly than to succeed mediocrely.” Honestly, this quote gives me hope for life. It basically tells me more simply and purely than ever before to do something in life that moves your heart, mind, and soul all at once, for any single one alone will leave you feeling unfilled in time. This is so simple that you may ask, “How can it be so inspiring?” The answer is to know Pausch’s story and all the struggles he has gone through.

To Mr. Sciuto:
It may have taken me a while to thoroughly appreciate the class, but I can honestly say that this was the most rewarding class I have ever taken. To be honest I disagreed with you and a lot of what was being taught early on but once I opened up my mind and had real patience I always respected what you taught, even if I disagreed with it. I hope to keep in touch over the summer and will see you next year. Thanks.