Never to Old to Learn

Esther Becker, resident

November 1, 2009

Never too old to learn is one valuable challenge I have learned throughout my life. Also some good qualities that I have learned are kindness always pays, smiles are contagious and uplifting, and sincere compliments are appreciated. Moreover, although I am older than some of my friends, I have learned how understanding they are because I can no longer quickly jump out of the car.

Although I was a very late starter in my academic journey, I completed two years of study at Eastern Mennonite College (now University) through which I learned determination and perseverance. Teaching at Lost Creek, Kentucky, for a year I learned about cultural differences, and that delicious food and the warmth of a fireplace are part of hospitality. Returning to EMU to complete my studies, I learned to appreciate my teachers. After receiving my degree in education, I taught at Manor Christian Day School before being asked by Eastern Mennonite Missions to teach at the School for the Blind in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I responded affirmatively. I learned to read Braille by using my eyes rather than my fingers.

The blind boys were eager to learn and to complete their elementary education. They learned by borrowing the notes of their classmates. Teachers typed those notes for them and read the notes which they put into Braille. I learned in a better way how blindness does not keep a blind student from learning along with sighted students. And also that blindness does not necessarily prevent blind students from becoming good citizens of their country.

In 1962, not only did I learn more about culture, but also how to make adjustments as I was transferred to the Bible Academy at Nazareth, which was a secondary co-ed boarding school. I was teaching English as well as being in charge of the girls' dormitory. I learned many things from the girls about their culture. It was interesting when parents came to visit or pick them up for a weekend leave with the student's family. I was learning more all the time.

When the school was nationalized in 1982, I had more adjusting to do because I had to have a legal reason for being in Ethiopia. Fortunately a former student told me of a vacancy at the University of Addis Ababa, and I was given a teaching job in the English department. I am thankful that God helped me to make necessary adjustments as I learned to work with different teachers and as we shared an office. Teaching at the university was also different because the spiritual emphasis of the Bible Academy was missing.

Now after living at Landis Homes as a resident for approximately 20 years, I am still challenged to continue learning through such means as Pathways Institute for Lifelong Learning as well as the many other very good programs Landis Homes provides. I am thankful for more opportunities through which I can continue learning.

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