Honors

In a few weeks I will be graduating with an Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from UCLA. Under my graduation status, I will be labeled with the college honors program, summa cum laude latin honors, and a member of the honors society Phi Beta Kappa. The only distinction that I am actually very glad about is being a member of Phi Beta Kappa. It allows my family to attend an exclusive Phi Beta Kappa induction/graduation ceremony while I can celebrate with friends at a separate departmental graduation. Other than that, it doesn't carry much worth. By no way am I attempting to trivialize the value of the work and discipline that paved the way for these honors. I recognize and respect the sacrifices that many students had to make in order to achieve whatever academic distinction they incurred during their collegiate careers. What I am trying to get across is that whatever honors or distinctions we are able to incur can be described with one term: fleeting. Sure, it feels great to have your name called out and be able to add another line to your resume. However, in reality these awards are like the fancy buildings you drive by in downtown. They are a result of your willingness to drive through, but once you pass them, they are forgotten (unless you make an effort to go back).

What we are exposed to every day is what shapes our lives, feelings, beliefs, and identities. Does your Phi Beta Kappa membership carry any weight in your relationships with family, friends, and everyone around you? At most, the distinction is a reflection of who you are already (a person who enjoys learning and challenging your intellectual side). Focus on your daily interactions and the impact you have on your environment. Cho, one of my closest friends, stated in a senior interview that relationships are what last, and external accomplishments are not relevant in your meaningful relationships. I agree completely. Your accomplishments should not drive your meaningful relationships. We all have those friends with whom we will support and cherish regardless of what they accomplish. In many cases who you are will determine what you do.

Mark 8:35-36

"For whoever who would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake and the gospel's will save it. For what does it profit a man to gain the world but forfeit his soul?"

As a man who sins and is faint at heart, I must remind myself every day that true honors comes from above. Strive for excellence in order to glorify the sovereign one above.

Instead of finishing some school work on Saturday, I found the time to re-evaluate and write my current mission statement (inspired by my spontaneous viewing of the movie Jerry Maguire).

Leave situations better than how you found it. Live a life that makes people wonder at your source.

I can confidently say that I will fail many times; however, just like with sin, I will pray and rely on my savior. Victory is certain and has been obtained.

John 16:33

"I have told you these things, that you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Romans 8:38-39

"For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord."