Series: Diary of A Divinity Student (Entry #3)
I
have just completed my second year of seminary.
This is what some refer to as the “muddy middle” year. The year that many students buckle under the
pressure of reformulating a self-identity that was once anchored in waters of
religious traditions, doctrines and denominations. The year that many of us struggle
to find balance on a theological tightrope of sorts, swaying between a space
where old ways of thinking no longer suffice and new theologies have yet to be
constructed. During my time of
reflection, something lead me to read an email I received about two years
earlier from a colleague who had also gone to seminary. He asked, “Are you in seminary to be trained
for a calling or clarify your calling?”
Looking back, I think it is a little of both.
During
dead week this past semester, I came across a song called “Q.U.E.E.N.” by
Janelle Monae, featuring Erykah Badu. I
believe that she has some pertinent theological advice for everyone, especially
those of us in seminary. Her song, laden
with religious imagery, explores themes such as: the price of pursuing one’s
passion, the correlation between sin and sexuality (if there is one), the concepts
of salvation, heaven, and human acceptance, sexual identity (to include same-gender
loving people) and salvation, and God’s acceptance of who we are, just the way we are—in our true
authenticity. She writes,
Hey brother, can you save my soul from the devil?
Say is it weird to like the way she wear her tights?
And is it rude to wear my shades?
Am I a freak because I love watching Mary? (Maybe)
Hey sister, am I good enough for your heaven?
Say will your God accept me in my black and white?
Will he approve the way I'm made?
Or should I reprogram the programming and get down?
Amidst
the message-ridden lyrics, thought-provoking images and the funky beat, this
question would not escape me! It is my
interpretation that, “programming” is a synonym for religious teaching/indoctrination. "Reprogramming" means reevaluating and recreating these teachings. “Getting down” then, is a metaphor for discovering
personal freedom/living in true authenticity.
As a major part of our culture and socialization, we have been taught
many religious principles. This process
(with due respect) has shaped much of who we are. However, there comes a time where we have the
option of reexamining what we believe, discarding beliefs, theologies,
doctrines and traditions that no longer promote our growth and embracing those
that do. In my view, Janelle Monae is
encouraging all of us not to be afraid of this creative process of re-drawing
boundary lines (freeing ourselves) in all areas of our lives. On the road to self-discovery and living in
true authenticity, (finding this place has been the crux of my seminary experience), I concur
with Janelle Monae that we should… “Reprogram the programming and get doooown”! Perhaps THIS is where we will meet God.
