FOREVER A STUDENT by Nicole Byrum I am a therapist and writer who is passionate about family, faith, and recovery. I am the author of Remade: Living Free, a book that explores topics related to substance abuse, recovery, and unhealthy relationships from a biblical perspective.
Few things stand out in my memory like those first days of a new school year. Whether in elementary, high school, or beyond, the energy and anticipation of each September were unmatched by any other time in the year. Everything from school supply shopping to picking out the “first-day outfit” was electric. The beginning was always such fun. However, as with most things, the newness quickly faded, and the grind of learning came on in full force. When I think back to some of the classes I took in high school and college, I can’t help but feel some twinges of regret. If only I would have cared more about history, government, and philosophy. If only I would have soaked in a little more knowledge. If only I had paid more attention. The good news is life is not all or nothing! Let me explain. A few years ago, during a conversation with a friend, the topic of reading was mentioned. It astounded me when my friend, an avid reader, told me how many books she typically read in a month. I was so embarrassed because at that time I read about one book a year. I decided then and there to set a goal for myself to read one book per month. That seemed both reasonable and attainable. Plus, the thought of reading 12 books in a year sounded good to me. I am happy to say that over the last 3 years I have far exceeded that goal! Reading has brought so much joy to my life, and I am so grateful this passion has been ignited. My life has been enriched through the great works of Charles Dickens, Victor Hugo, Ernest Hemingway, and so many other fantastic authors of classic fiction. Their beautiful words and honest portrayal of humanity have engaged my emotions, challenged my thinking, and guided my writing. 16 | M AG AEVERY Z I N E N ACORNER ME FAITH ON PAGE 3 15
I have also enjoyed reading books of topical interests as well as biographies. I have learned more than I ever did in school about the founding of our nation and eras such as the 1960s and 1970s. I have read books about Dolly Parton, Ben Carson, Willie Nelson, Mother Teresa, Steven Tyler, and Winston Churchill. Currently, I’m enjoying a book about the life of Theodore Roosevelt. These individuals are all so different from one another! Yet, I have learned not only about them but something from each of them. The third reading category I have welcomed into my life is theology. From Jonathan Edwards and John Calvin to twentieth-century heroes such as C. S. Lewis and A. W. Tozer, to present theologians R. C. Sproul and John Piper, these amazing men have authored the books that have deepened my faith and increased my affections for my Creator and Savior. I am forever indebted to them, for their written words have been a magnificent gift to my life. It amazes me that the last three paragraphs would likely not have happened if not for a casual conversation with a friend. I would have missed so much richness. But as I said, praise God, life is not “all or nothing!” Although I regret not fully embracing my earlier education in the past, I can make use of the time in the present to fill my mind and heart with beautiful words, knowledge, and truth. Truly, it is never too late to become and remain - a student.
