By Richard Parker
In May of 2010, students of the Khadija tul Kubra school for girls in Kunduz, Afghanistan were attacked with poison gas by suspected supporters of the Taliban, as reported by USA Today. What is compelling about this story was not the egregious act of hatred committed by an extremist religious faction of Islam, but instead the courage shown by the students. They were determined to continue attending school, despite the dangers. Marwa Mahmoodi, a 13 year old, told USA Today reporters of her father’s fears of her return to school after the attacks.
“If I lose the last drop of blood in my body, I am going to finish school,” Mahmoodi bravely proclaimed to USA Today.
I value her determination in completing her education. I value that she is willing to risk her own death in order to advance her knowledge. She is prepared to risk so much for something that many students I have encountered in my time at the University of Louisville sadly take for granted.
“I don’t want to go to class.”
“Hey, let’s skip our class together and go do something else.”
“Class is so boring. I really don’t like going.”
We have all heard, perhaps even said at times, something similar to these statements. I will confess that I am also guilty of making these statements. Let it be clear that I do not claim to hold some higher position than you, where I deem it necessary to disseminate my superior knowledge upon you. My concern with the attitude toward my education equals the concern that is held with yours.
There are times when many students hope classes are canceled due to the weather or any other event. Being a college student is stressful. Exams, papers and complex readings can prove difficult to balance with personal matters and the search for a career. Of course, I am preaching to the choir. You are as aware of these challenges as I am.
As they often are, these challenges need not be dreaded. A change in attitude and a recognition of the positives can make the difference between a smile and a frown. We struggle with relationships and friendships, but we experience growth and happiness precisely because of those challenges. The exams we take and the papers we write are important for giving us an opportunity to show our abilities and to reinforce our knowledge of what we are being tested over.
Through challenge and struggle, we can gain friendships that may last a lifetime. We can gain knowledge that we can use for careers and, more importantly, to enrich the lives of others, whether they are friends, partners, coworkers or fellow citizens around the world. Many of us will find lifelong relationships. And we may even meet them in our classes. Think of the ways your college career and class participation has enriched your life.
As a final reminder, I would like us all to respect the courage of Mahmoodi and her classmates in defying their oppressors by standing firm in their commitment to be educated. Appreciate all the others who endured great misery and hardship for something many of us are encouraged to do. Find the strength to recognize your own difficulties, and those of your fellow classmates. Respect them by making the most out of attending classes, and by enjoying learning.
