Discussion:Building Your House

Read the following short story entitled "Building Your House."

Story:Building Your House.An elderly carpenter was ready to retire.He told his boss of his plans to leave the house-building business to live a more leisurely life with his wife and enjoy his extended family.He would miss the paycheck each week, but he wanted to retire.They could get by.The boss was sorry to see his good worker go and asked if he could build just one more house as a personal favor.The carpenter said "yes," but over time, it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work.He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials.It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.When the carpenter finished his work, his boss came to inspect the house.But, instead, the boss handed the front-door key to the carpenter and said, "This is your house...my gift to you!"The carpenter was shocked!What a shame!if he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it so differently.So it is with us.We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building.Then, with a shock, we realize we have to live in the house we have built.If we could do it over, we would do it much differently.But, you cannot go back.You are the carpenter, and every day, you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall.Someone once said, "Life is a do-it-yourself project."Your attitude and the choices you make today, help build the "house" you will live in tomorrow.Therefore, build wisely.

Question:What does the story of "Building Your House" have anything to do with you, your college experience, and/or life?Can you think of any areas of your college life where your "heart isn't into your work/studies" and "you take shortcuts" or "aren't doing your best?"Why are you doing that?How do you think those attitudes and performances will serve you in the short run?In the long run?Do you believe in consequences of taking the easy route?