In the years since my retirement I have been shocked several times to see in the mirror an old man blocking my view of my younger self. But it must be me whom I see, since the mirror does not lie.
But the specter of the old prof in the looking glass got me to thinking of what I might say to the young assistant professor who used to occupy that space decades ago if he were given the opportunity. What follows I would have said to him when he first began. I share it with you with the hope that you will take from it that which inspires you.
Live Intentionally. Work as unto the Lord, on mission, making it about the kingdom of God rather than your petty fiefdom. Love unconditionally not to win a corner office but to serve your fellow human. Don’t let life just happen but grow spiritually as well as intellectually.
Persevere. Remember the primary lesson of your dissertation: even a monumental task is achievable through sustained persistence and hard work. So do not give up even when the way is rough. Remember that God is faithful. He will not waste your pain.
Do not fear failure. Failure can be the gateway to success. For example, when I was unfairly fired as a chair, an event that felt like a significant failure, my subsequent reaction to the incident led to unexpected credibility in the university community, This resulted I think because I sought to act honorably, in a Christ-honoring way. Give and accept grace for others and yourself.
Listen first, then speak. Listen to understand not to rebut. Listening was so hard for the professorial me who always wanted to give a quick—even if not always informed—answer.
Celebrate uniqueness. Don’t fall for the snake oil of social “color blindness,” instead celebrate differences and seek to understand how each person’s uniqueness increases their value. Understanding other cultures and points of view does not threaten you but enriches you.
Walk daily with the Almighty. Pray without ceasing. But not always begging the Father for things, but by listening. Listen to His voice in his written word, in His image found in others. Keep a journal of your experience. Your memory is fallible and an occasional look back will nourish your spirit.
There is a time for everything. As there are seasons to the day (rest, work, play, meditation) there are seasons to a career (research, tenure seeking, growth, mentoring, administration).
Delight yourself in God’s creation. Have fun. “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.” (Psalm 111:2 NASB) Remember what led you to your discipline: the pure joy of discovery and the sharing of that hard-won knowledge.
I am sure there are probably other things you would benefit knowing, but that is a plateful. I will be waiting here in the mirror when you have run your course. Keep the faith.
Sam Matteson
University of North Texas