Transformation...
a new look at old toys!
The movie “Transformers” features beings from another planet that appear to be ordinary machines like cars, trucks and airplanes, but are actually aliens using Earth as a battlefield. When the situation warrants it, they become wondrous, awesome beings that rear up with weaponry, extreme power and determination to battle their enemies. The Decepticons want to steal the earth’s vast energy resources and the Autobots try to protect earth folk from destruction. Lots of good guys versus bad guys fun with a little romance thrown in here and there. These creatures go from ordinary to extraordinary in a flash. They started out one way and had the hidden potential to become something very, very different. They are transformed, changed in their form and function. Their choices are about using their great power to help or to destroy. As humans, we possess this same extraordinary talent, many of us just don’t know it yet!
The Quincy University Mission Statement states that we are dedicated to transformation: to “prepare men and women for leadership and for the transformation of the world by educating them to seek knowledge that leads to wisdom.” Change happens simply by the passing of time: think about it, we are all very different than we were four years ago! But transformation happens by the choices we make along the way. Transforming the world begins with transforming ourselves and we do that purposefully. Our University seeks to offer students opportunities, challenges and direction through education. And it all isn’t just for us; it is to make a difference in the world, to contribute to a future together, to make the world a better place.
We don’t transform ourselves by growing weapons and defenses out of our tires and doors! We transform ourselves by rubbing shoulders with others and listening to them, by searching out and considering both traditions and new ways of looking at the world around us and our place in it. We learn, risk, invest time; we celebrate ourselves and each other and develop our potential as individuals and as a community. Education is the key, the means to our transformation together. Knowledge that leads to making choices guided by values is knowledge that leads to wisdom.
Our transformation is through building relationships, challenging our categories, expanding our minds, learning about and experiencing leadership and just plain learning. And we accomplish this together with joy. Transform yourself, transform the world!
Peace and all good!
Father John Doctor, OFM
Vice President for Mission and Ministry