The importance of values amidst a worldwide pandemic
The second half of spring semester has been a unique one to say the least with the COVID-19 pandemic. Students and faculty are all trying as best as possible to adjust to both teaching and learning online, and the atmosphere of a busy campus is one many are missing. In this time, it is important to reflect and think about how Viterbo values can relate to the world’s current situation. Emily Dykman, Chair of the Religious Studies Department, provides some crucial insight into how this may look.
One Viterbo value is contemplation. To this, Dykman shares, “The quiet we are afforded by the clearing of busy schedules offers us an opportunity to re-focus attention. When we discussion contemplation from a Franciscan perspective, it is a way of looking for God’s presence in the ordinary.” She goes on to say, “I have been struck by the many posts in social media that focus on glimpses of beauty, goodness, and truth in the world.” This is an experience many can relate to, as platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook have had many challenges and popular posts encouraging others to look at the positives and take this opportunity to be grateful for what one has, as well as to contemplate what is truly important in life.
The next value Dykman mentions is that of hospitality. “We are no longer spending time in one another’s physical space, but we offer hospitality even more through welcoming one another into our virtual spaces,” she says. “My students have been very kind and understanding about the occasional class interruption by my five-year old daughter!” This way of showing hospitality is perhaps not the first that comes to mind, but as Dykman explains, “It is about being patient, understanding, and reverent toward the humanity that is all around us” and that is what Viterbo strives to represent.
Integrity is another important value at Viterbo. Dykman is impressed by the integrity and leadership Viterbo has demonstrated throughout this new and difficult time in the world. “The starting point has always been our mission and identity first. Our focus has been on what serves our community as a whole. This has not always been easy, but it has been appreciated by those the decision has impacted.” Viterbo has had to make decisions without past experience to base on, but they have taken the time and care to make the best one possible for the students, staff, and faculty. She concludes, “It is an honor to be a part of a community that truly cares for one another and extends that care openly.”
Service is a key value on Viterbo’s campus as well. Dykman explains how she has recently had conversations regarding virtual service opportunities now that social distancing is in place and it is not as easy to volunteer in the traditional manner. She states how amazed she is by those making masks, meals, and taking care of the children of healthcare workers. “Our common commitment to service did not take a break, but it has enlisted those who are now able to give in new ways,” she states.
Last is the value of stewardship. Dykman expresses how the state of the world “is allowing us to reorder priorities and begin to think differently about how we use all of our resources.” She continues to say that many are taking time for rest and exploration of nature that they do not necessarily take the time for usually. “Our appreciation for nature and one another, I believe, will lead us to caring for both more intentionally.”
Though the world is currently in unprecedented territory, there is still room for our core values. The students, staff and faculty of Viterbo are united in continuing the values of contemplation, hospitality, integrity, service and stewardship at home and online.