REFLECTION: MORAL COMPASS 1

Moral Compass

I'm going to be honest when I found out we were required to take two Bible classes to

complete our degree. I was a little nervous. Just thinking about completing a Bible class was very

challenging for me because I had no prior experience with the Bible before taking the classes. I

was super anxious when the day of my first class came. I did not want to go. Just as I imagined

the level of the course was pretty high in regards to the amount of prior knowledge, we had to

know to keep up with the discussions. There was no way for me to contribute to the

conversation because I had no previous experience I was confused most of the time.

This experience was something that was out of my hands, so I had to make the best of it,

given that the two classes are required to graduate. I had two decision either not do the work or

try to learn as much as possible to get a passing grade. I choose to learn the content enough so

that I could include myself in the conversations and pass the class. Overall I finished my first

Bible course with a B. I was so surprised because when it came time to complete my signature

assignment, it took me almost an entire day. I thought I was not going to be good enough to pass

the course, but to my surprise, I got a passing grade. This whole experience has shown me that

with hard work and determination, I can accomplish anything. There were many sleepless nights

filled with frustration to understand a concept that required lots of reading. I gave it my all, and I

proved to myself that I am able to pass the Bible class that I was afraid to take.

The Bible courses were challenging, but have taught me many lessons along the way. For

example, I just came to realize that even though I do not practice the Bible like others, it is

essential to be well rounded about the topic because you never know when you might need to

know general information to have simple conversations with others. I also learned the basics,
REFLECTION: MORAL COMPASS 2

such as how to read the Bible, how to identify page numbers, versus, and parables. Now If I ever

have to do anything that involves a Bible, I am knowledgeable of the Basics. I also believe these

courses tested my work ethic. I could have just easily given up, but I challenged myself to keep

going.

The courses have also shown me patience and understanding for others. There were many

conversations we had during class about forgiveness towards others. No one in this world is

perfect, so why are we so reluctant to forgive those who hurt us? That was a significant question

that we deliberated on for a while, we concluded that forgiveness is the way to go. Just as God

forgives us for our sins, we are no one to judge others for their mistakes.

Patience was another topic that resonated with me, especially since I will be working

with young children. We often question why things happen to us, but we discussed that God does

not put any problems upon us that we can not handle. So we must have patience, especially when

we are in a classroom where we are challenged with different attitudes for our students. Taking a

deep breath and talking about the problem rather than getting upset and yelling is a great

technique I learned in class. I have also come to the understanding that we must support each

other not only as a family but also as friends and neighbors. For example, I also learned that we

must give back is were are stable in our everyday life. Oi loved this because I have always

wanted to help those who need it the most, so after this class, I was motivated to do so. I have

found a group of community members in Merced that every other Sunday we come together at

Applegate park and we feed the homeless. Together we create a list of what each of us will bring.

We usually serve about 40 people every other Sunday. There is a great feeling of satisfaction that

we were able to help those who need it the most.