John Berecz, Professor of Psychology

Dr. Berecz taught a course dealing with behavior modification and I think I had to take it as part of my teacher certification. The class had a lab period where we sat on the floor in a circle.

Early in the quarter, during one lab period, we went around the circle and had to say something that we liked. The students responded by saying things like: “I like chocolate ice cream.” “I like to ski in the Winter.” “I like macaroni and cheese.” After we had all responded, Dr. Berecz asked us to reflect on how the group had answered the question. He commented that people pretty much gave “safe” answers. People nodded in agreement. Then he asked, “Did Esther give a safe answer?” I had said, “I like to talk about Jesus.” The class concluded that that was NOT a “safe” answer (even in an Adventist school).

I often reflect on that moment when I’ve had a choice about how intentional to be about my interactions. I choose to move beyond safety while still being a winsome and contagious Adventist.