Calvin College - Prism Yearbook (Grand Rapids, MI)

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Others may find their solution in their diligence, in their helpfulness, in their par- ticipation in various activities, in their friendliness. Somewhere, somehow, there is an opportunity for each student to apply himself to develop in his relations with him- self, with others, and With God. To be sure, these are solutions, but none of them are perfect solutions, none can completely develop the individual. However, this imperfect solution may become perfected through integration with that form of develop- ment Which is the basis and the end of any other which the student may find. There must he a striving for a goal which man cannot humanly reach. The answer, the perfection, the completion is in God. God, lover of souls, swaying considerate scales, Complete thy creature dear 0 where it fails, Being mighty a master, being a father and fond. GERARD MANLEY HOPKINS 29

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Though the problem of development is the basis for our being here, we usually do not worry or even think about it. lt is a motivation rather than an overt concern. This broadening of the mind brings with it a challenge to which each student reacts in a different way. The confident may attack it with all his resources, securing his goal if he is ably confident. The overly conscientious will battle for perfection and may experience a sense of incompletion which is frustrating for him. The unaware may drop out along the way unless impellingly awakened. But the person who immed- iately or eventually realizes that his development lies in his initiative and the direc- tion of God will find his solution in various forms of exercised ability and self-expres- sion. To some, diligent study provides the answer. The industry of facts demanded, supplied, and manufactured into products to be discussed and convincingly sold to themselves and to mankind, provide them with Working relationships and a clarified knowledge of their position in a universe of God, man, and nature. This industry requires its own skills, and by the exercise of these skills, mind and character develop. Leisure activities-the coffee shop, social functions, and solitary reverie-provide an oppor- tunity for relaxation, exchange of ideas, and further growth in mind and personality. , ZZ! .X Those with athletic talents find sports a rewarding experience. The grueling physi- cal tension involved in the training of their bodies, the thrill of battle, and good sportsmanship provide opportunities for development. The bench-warmer, the second man, or the individual star have actualized some potential which they possess. The talents of others may lie in the realm of aesthetics-the fine arts. These, by express- ing themselves in music, painting, or writing, increase the actualization of their goals and provide a means by which others may vicariously increase theirs. 28

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A man must keep a little back shop where he can be himself without reserve. In solitude alone can he know true free- dom. MONTAIGNE