Best and Worst

Dr. Robert Knowles, Vice President for Advancement

When our children were growing up and we sat together to eat supper, we often would get the ‘temperature’ of the day by playing ‘best and worst.’ The concept was simple – our children were invited to reflect on what happened in their day that was great, and what happened that wasn’t. As you can appreciate, with children, answers varied from disappointments with friends to good marks received on tests at school.

Today, in the midst of a global pandemic, it’s easy to highlight ‘the worst’ – sickness, death, uncertainty, fear, and isolation abound. We are experiencing something that if we were told of it in advance, I’m not sure we would have been able to wrap our minds around it.

But, do you also see ‘the best’ around you? Think with me about sacrifices of front line workers, people reaching out with acts of kindness, increased faith, and words of encouragement.

Even with other tragedies in Nova Scotia and elsewhere on top of this pandemic, we’ve seen an outpouring of loving support. Though limited by physical distancing, the intent to care and serve is there. People want to do something for others.

While it seems that the ‘COVID crisis’ at Crandall University is relatively small in comparison to challenges faced by some families, we have still been stretched as we adjust to new realities. To hear a supporter say, “How can I help you?”

or “I’ve been thinking about you” has made a world of difference to us. We are concerned for our students and our entire community. We want to protect our employees and we want to deliver our education with minimal disruption to our students. While the ‘worst’ relatively speaking may mean inconvenience or revenue loss, the ‘best’ is experienced in second mile service, generosity, teamwork, and creativity.

Why should I be surprised? The Crandall University community of employees, students, and our supporters has always risen to the occasion and met the challenge, and God has always provided.

In the story of Joseph in Genesis, we learn that even in the worst of circumstances, God can turn bad into good. In the case of recent events, we’ve seen very hard times near and far, but the ‘best’ can also be seen – peace, hope, and love coming from God and experienced in and through relationships with others.

And for that I am grateful!

Dr. Robert Knowles (’89) has served as Vice President for Advancement since 2012. He is married to Crystal (Huxter) (’92, ’16), and they areparents of two Crandall graduates and two current students.