This poem, “On Continuing to Learn,” reflects on the value of sustaining a learning mindset while wavering between what can and cannot be known. It expresses, in both introspective and powerful language, how learning nurtures the self, connects us with others, and drives personal transformation.
On Continuing to Learn
One must not remain ignorant,
yet it is impossible to know everything.
Still, I want to keep the desire to learn.
No matter how much I struggle, there are things I cannot know.
Yet I cannot extinguish the wish to understand.
At least, I want to keep the humility to learn.
To continue learning—
a learning heart nurtures me,
the will to learn strengthens me,
what I learn protects me,
opportunities to learn cultivate me.
To continue learning together—
encounters through learning enrich me,
shared knowledge inspires me,
companions in learning guide me toward conviction.
To continue learning further—
with each lesson, I break my old shell.
If I understand the value of learning, I will not falter.
If I understand the meaning of learning, I will not run away.
If I understand the reason for learning, I can go on living.
Learning is a message from the unknown world.
To know is an endless instinct for survival.
To continue learning is an invitation to live better.
To know is proof of one’s existence.
To learn together is to share the world of knowledge.
To know is both self-cultivation and mutual recognition.
A world of learning that is born only through action.
A world of learning that will not change without movement.
A world of learning felt only after taking action.
While dwelling in this world of learning, I continue to struggle.