Christopher Long: CALLING DR. LONG

My little over achiever!

I attended an actual academic class last night for the first time since shortly after graduating from high school, thirty years ago. Yes, I'm now officially a college man -- frightening, right?

As a junior last year, my son attended half high school classes and half college classes. As a seventeen-year-old senior this year, he'll be attending all college classes. In fact, when he's handed his high school diploma next summer, he'll also simultaneously receive his AA degree.

For me, I slept through most of high school. I was considerably less focused on academics and more focused on getting high, chasing chicks, alphabetizing my 8-track tapes and prepping for my (perceived) future as a rock star -- choices I now regret. I did attend a local community college immediately following high school in 1981. However, based on my initial, less than stellar performance, I was "encouraged" by an instructor to withdraw after only two weeks.

I feel like I'm channeling Rodney Dangerfield

in the 1980s film, Back to School.
(I hope none of my instructors go "Kinison" on me!)

Over the last year or so, I have felt increasingly compelled to pursue the Christian ministry. But when I discussed a recent faith-based writing project with an established Christian publishing agent, he basically informed me that I wasn't qualified to talk about Jesus to anyone and that I might be best served to simply keep my mouth shut. Thanks for the love, brother!

My next move was clear. At age forty-eight, I decided to go back to school. The basic college experience would offer me another common denominator with my son. However, a college experience at a Christian university would not only enhance my spiritual journey, but it would also provide me with the necessary cred. to move forward in pursuing legitimate ministry opportunities.

If this guy can do college, so can I.

(Okay, maybe Bluto isn't
exactly the best example.)

So there I was, filling out admission forms and paying tuition fees at nearly fifty, preparing for my first night of class at East Coast Christian University in Merritt Island, Florida. Although it will take several years worth of hard work and dedication, my goal is to ultimately earn a Doctorate in Theology. I'll keep everyone apprised of my progress.

FYI -- Only seven more months 'til Spring Break -- WOO HOO!

-Chris