Know Thyself
A good understanding of your own weaknesses and strengths can help immensely as you prepare to enter Theology School
Personal formation is an essential aspect of theological education. In the end, the goal of seminary (and of education) is less about filling our heads with knowledge than it is forming the habit of learning and transforming the character of those who learn. Theology school is not only intellectually challenging, but also brings us face to face with profound, life-changing questions about God, the universe, and ourselves. Perhaps this is why the words “know thyself” (ΓΝΩΘΙ ΣΕΑΥΤΟΝ) were carved above the entrance to the oracle at Delphi: encountering sublime mysteries compels us to take stock of our abilities and shortcomings, our strengths and our weaknesses. Such self-awareness requires honesty, humility, and courage.
The Antediluvian Librarians feel safe in asserting that nobody wants to dwell on the things they can’t do well; we all prefer playing to our strengths. Yet ignoring a weakness, especially in church or academic life, can lead to unsatisfactory consequences. Where would we be if Thomas Aquinas had found philosophy too challenging? Or if Saint Cecelia believed it when her kindergarten teacher said she couldn’t carry a tune? It took Augustine years before he could exercise restraint, but look at his accomplishments once he did.
Rather than beating ourselves up—or worse, ignoring our weaknesses in hopes that they will go away—we need to suck it up and face them. If we can honestly assess the areas that give us trouble, then invest our best efforts in bringing them up to an adequate standard, we win by improving both our habits and self-awareness. Let's not kid ourselves, however. Sincere personal assessment takes humility and perseverance. It runs counter to our culture and our own natures, but it’s well worth it in the long term—the communion of saints tells us so.
Once we are over that hurdle, it becomes a matter of classifying the problem and seeking a remedy. Is the problem area knowledge-based? This category includes skills like accounting, a strong vocabulary, or coping with the latest technology—all things that anyone can objectively learn and practice. Perhaps it is more in the area of administrative skills, like problem solving, managing people, or communications? These skills are trickier because they are subjective, but seeking guidance from more experienced people, plus plain old trial and error, should help. Maybe it hits closer to home in the area of personal traits, like punctuality, optimism, or assertiveness? The fix here could be as simple as buying an alarm clock or as tough as seeking professional guidance. Or there are the skills one can acquire only through doing them, over and over, like public speaking, writing well, or riding a bicycle.
And while we are getting to know ourselves, we need to take inventory of our strengths. Knowing what comes easily for us, and developing habits that play to our strengths, is a hallmark of working smarter. Just like taking an inventory of our weaknesses, figuring out our strengths involves self- examination. It’s highly personal, but it can yield many positive results. For example, if you know you have a facility for languages, that should play a part in your selection of courses in Theology School. If you possess a talent for pastoral care, that should, too. If history is your great love, then you should consider concentrating on classes in Christian Heritage.
Finally, to take self-knowledge a step further, the Antediluvian Librarians invite you to examine the specific factors that motivate you to learn deeply and well. For some people it is the idea of being of service to others. Some perceive what they have to learn as having a long-term benefit for their lives and careers. In many ways, you have probably already connected the idea of seminary work with your personal goals and professional priorities. Create a list of distinct personal motivating factors, and connect them with your inventory of weaknesses and strengths. What you will have created is not only a road map of where and how you should invest your time and energy, but also a safety net for those times when, inevitably, you find yourself asking, “What am I doing here?” Trust us. We’ve been there.