My favorite words are possibilities, opportunities and curiosity. I think if you are curious, you create opportunities, and then if you open the doors, you create possibilities. – Mario Testino

My grandfather would say often “we are curious.” I didn’t know what he meant.  I think I am beginning to now.  It is interesting that many of the things he said I am just now beginning to understand.

I am drawn to people that want to grow. My guess is you are to. I think the best people are naturally curious learners.  They want to know more and grow more. This attitude produces a humbleness and compassion for others. People that are curious are humble, they don’t know everything and they are secure with that.

The typical way that I have seen this presented is – the best people are learners.  I think we can develop this skill by developing a program of disciplining ourselves to learn and grow, but I am not sure it is the best way. The difference of what I am trying to present is attitude. Curious people are humble with no ego. They can even learn from the people that irritate them.  They are eager to know or learn something even in difficult situations.  Learning is a natural skill and awareness, not something that is part of a program or discipline.  They see growing as part of the journey of Christlikeness. It has to start by opening your heart to desire again, not just trying by force of will to change yourself.

This natural curiosity helps us to learn how to love God and love our neighbor in a way that makes God famous. I have learned that curious learners are more vulnerable and willing to submit to others.  They develop a compassion for others in a way the raises them above social anxiety.  They see people as made in the image of God and valuable.  With an attitude of curiosity they naturally look for and are amazed by change, growth and God working in others.

What was Jesus Known For?

Jesus had more knowledge and possessed more wisdom than anyone that has ever walked the earth. The interesting thing is that He was not known for these characteristics.  Jesus was known for His love and compassion.  Could it be possible that knowledge and wisdom that produces understanding are tied together? I think so – (Proverbs 2:6, Proverbs 4:7, Proverbs 24:3-5, Proverbs 9:10)  The more humble loving and curious you become.  The more like Christ you become.

You never know the places curiosity will take you.

I think so here are a couple of ideas to help you develop the heart of a curious learner.

• Place more value on people….. God does.  When you see people as valuable and made in His image it develops a curiosity to know God and know them
• See yourself through Gods eyes. This is humbling and amazing – He is crazy about you – He really is.  This security gives you the courage to explore.
• Recognize the beauty of the world around you.  Ask God daily to show you beauty, to open your eyes to see the beauty around you.  You will be surprised how this draws you to learn more.

I know this seems simple, but it opens the heart to desire more.  I think it opens the heart of the child to the excitement of learning again.  Seeking wisdom and knowledge will produce understanding.

What do you think?  Are you a curious learner?