Identity
Richmont Graduate University has been focusing lately on issues of institutional identity. In some ways that seems kind of funny for a thirty-six year old graduate school, doesn’t it? However, it seems to me that our identity is always in some kind of transition.
Heracletus said a man never steps in the same river twice: not only because the river moves on (which he said) but because the man changes as well. Identity is always changing.
For Richmont, we have been actively affirming our identity as professional counselors. We believe it’s important that our students have professors who serve as good models for them and for our alumni. Women and men who are committed to this discipline of helping, advocacy and caring.
But when you think about it, how do you and I define our identity as well? Can you put it into words? What identity shall you and I affirm? And how might that identity shape the world of those around us? What about the patients you may one day see?
I believe the issue of identity is a critical one in today’s society. We’ve all been shaped by the wounds in our lives. If we’re not careful, those experiences begin to define who we are. Part of our task as counselors is to make sure that our patients gain a broader perspective, seeing themselves as more than the sum of their experiences.
For those who are Christians, our identity in Christ is a huge part of that perspective. The scriptures say that those of us who are in Christ are “new creatures.” Our identity is new! I can think of no greater joy in life than to point people who are hurting toward a new sense of identity and purpose.
If you have a heart for counseling and want to make a difference in people’s lives, let’s talk…
About the author, Jeff Terrell
