"The limits of my language mean the limits of my world," asserted 20th century philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein. BYU-Hawaii Associate Professor of Religion Keith Lane quoted Wittgenstein as he addressed the students and faculty of BYU-Hawaii at this year's University Convocation. [Pictured above- BYU–Hawaii faculty members preparing to enter convocation]
The University Convocation is an annual tradition at BYU-Hawaii begun in 1989 by R. Lanier Britsch when he was academic vice president. Now organized by the Dean's Council, the purpose of the Convocation is to allow faculty members to speak on thought-provoking issues. The event also allows the speaker and other faculty members a chance to showcase their regalia-caps and gowns, typically worn only at graduation ceremonies.
[Pictured at left- Keith Lane, BYU–Hawaii faculty member and speaker at this year's convocation] Lane's talk, titled "The Consecration of Our Studies," urged students to spend their time at BYU-Hawaii becoming well-educated disciples of Christ. He expressed that they must bring their gifts to the Lord's service.
He related to listeners his experiences in becoming familiar with the world of bird watching while he was attending BYU in Provo. While he only used to recognize a few birds around the campus, he quickly learned to know dozens of others. "That whole world was there, but I never knew it until I was made attune to it, by knowledge, and practice," said Lane. He said the same is true for any realm of knowledge.
Lane also recounted his experience as a student this past summer in a two-week seminar on Buddhism in New Mexico. Those classes, which he prepared for and completed all of the reading for, were the classes he learned the most from. He encouraged students to do the same for their own classes.
He closed by saying, "God can sanctify your studying...I believe He will help and enlighten and strengthen our earnest and diligent efforts."
Photos by Nathan Lehano