Positivity Corner: Writing Theology Papers
Photo by CHUTTERSNAP on Unsplash
Yes, that title is correct. One of the positives in my life is actually writing academic works for my grad school education. And I’ve been writing a lot of these theology papers lately, so trust me, it’s a sincere note, else it wouldn’t have made it past my editors!
You see, writing theology papers isn’t just a school task for me. It’s an exploration of what I’m learning, how I’m growing, how I’m changing, how I’m developing as an adult human. So much of youth was spent regurgitating rote memorization and trying to make a grade. But now, in seminary I’m synthesizing and expanding the knowledge I’m gaining. And it is an utter delight!
Admittedly, I probably wouldn’t get so much out of this activity if I weren’t a born writer and creative. But since I am, I’m pouring my heart and soul into these works that I’ve been researching and writing for my various classes on missiology, women in ministry, Old Testament studies, New Testament studies, etc.
In the past year, I’ve written close to 150 reflection papers, essays, and posts between all the classes I’ve taken. At the beginning of each semester, I start out with a mixture of dread and excitement at all the work – it’s seriously a lot for someone who works full-time, runs a magazine, and is a part-time caregiver for two chronically ill family members.
But as I start writing each paper, diving into the research topics like women+body+image+church+responsibilities, I feel tingles run up and down my spine. I’m eager to craft articles that are (hopefully) down to earth, well-researched, and useful for individuals.
I’ve been so excited, in fact, that I’m crazily planning to open a second magazine in the near future just to publish these kinds of works (accessible, academically-sound but accessible to non-academic essays, research papers, etc.) of my own and those of friends and colleagues.
And while you might not be writing your own theology papers or researching topics that matter a great deal to you, I hope this little post can be an encouragement for you. Find something you’re passionate about, dedicate yourself to it (like I have theologically sound works that don’t discriminate against women, POC, LGBTQIA+ community, etc.), and find some joy!
Pursuit of great things truly can change your life, bring light, lift spirits, and delight the soul. And if you can share that pursuit with others, all the more so. People won’t be able to help but notice your passion and see the delightful joy pouring out.
Looking for more positivity? We’ve got lots to share!
Breath Prayers and Reflections
Editor-in-Chief of The MockingOwl Roost, Rita Mock-Pike is the granddaughter of aviatrix, Jerrie Mock, first woman to pilot an airplane solo around the world. Rita has found inspiration from her grandmother’s life and flight and pursued many of her own dreams in theatre, podcasting, novel writing, and cooking up delicious food from around the world. She now writes on food, travel, pets, faith, and the arts. She’s happily married to Matt, and faithfully serves the very fluffy kitten queen, Lady Stardust.
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