Parable Revisited

2001-1-5 18:31:00

It appears the lesson of the following parable needs to be absorbed again.

There was a man proficient in Spanish and wanted to share his knowledge so he invited all who desired to learn this language to attend his class free of any charge. None were refused.

Several who attended the class were familiar with other languages and also desired to teach, but could not find enough students for a class and thought they would teach the students in the class their languages of preference.

While the teacher was yet handing out lessons one stood and started speaking ancient Hebrew. Then another stood and spoke Latin.

Few students showed much interest in these languages for they wanted to learn a practical one that they could speak in present time. Even so, the two students continued to interrupt the class attempting to teach languages with which they were familiar.

Instead of having the effect of enhanced learning, the only effect seemed to be a disturbance.

Student after student complained that they did not want to learn Hebrew or Latin and that the two students should go elsewhere if they insist on teaching something other than the curriculum.

The two students were incredulous and could not understand why two, three or even four languages could not be learned and discussed, and continued to force their will upon the group.

Up to this point the teacher was tolerant and made the best of an awkward situation, but he was faced with two problems.

The first were complaints from sincere students and the second was that many students became frustrated and left the class.

Finally the teacher had to implement hard and fast rules that caused the students to direct their attention to Spanish or leave the class and go elsewhere.

Those who refused to focus or honor the free will direction of the group were disgruntled and accused the teacher and the rest of the students as being dictators and narrow-minded, but when the dust settled there was peace and at last Spanish was taught, learned and spoken.