A Small Memorial

I like looking up my favorite former professors to see how they're doing. I probably should make contact, but eh, I'm still a shy person, even having known them in the flesh. (Maybe soon?)

I have only visited one professor several times since leaving FSCJ in 2008, because he allowed former students to sit in his lectures.

Richard Turk was my professor for Intro to Religion and World Religions in 2006 and 2007. He was a pastor for many years before teaching courses and he still ministered to ex-prisoners so that they could function within society again. He told us about helping underprivileged adults and children, along with his wife (who would sometimes come to class herself and talk to the students). Mr. Turk was a devout Christian, but was one of the most open-minded people I have ever met. (He claimed to play "Buddhist golf," which was pretty funny) He loved listening to us and debating, and would challenge those who were a little too stuck in their worldview. He wouldn't just "grade" our papers and work, but would write many notes on them and this would prompt further discussion. He liked watching us grow and observing our thought processes - a true teacher. 

He advocated acceptance of all belief systems, despite his not subscribing to all of them. (He would often end a discussion with, "Isn't that somethin'?" with a big grin on his face. He thought spirituality was amazing in all forms) Even though I thought I knew a lot about religion before coming into the classes, I learned so much from him because he knew about the history and contexts from which the religions grew.

Today, I thought about visiting him again soon. When I looked him up, I was saddened to learn that he had passed away on December 25, 2011. Apparently, he taught right up to his death; he loved it so much. It's fitting that he went "home" on his savior's birthday. He practiced Christianity as it should be. I really hope he's happy.
It's weird knowing he will no longer be on campus again. ):