Valuing Presence Over Productivity
written by: Rev. Dr. Scott Paczkowski
“Know this, my beloved brothers and sister; let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger. ”
A recent "Town and Country" article tells how well-to-do, second-career professionals are enrolling at Harvard, Yale, the University of Chicago, and other top Divinity Schools. Shockingly, many of them are not attending to become pastors or professors. Several students do not have faith. Their motivation is based on their transforming business model. The article's writer, Nicole LaPorte, states, "Though the degree might seem obscure, a master's in divinity is seen by some employers at this moment in time-when elite culture prizes empathy, understanding differences, and diversity, equity, and inclusion-as more relevant and more of a differentiator than an MBA or JD."
LaPorte's article caught me off guard because while divinity school training is academically demanding, it requires presence over productivity. You are not cranking out papers for a grade but evaluating how each learning persuades, supports, instructs, and enhances the individuals you care for in the church and community. The corporate world realizes that success requires more than just productivity.
I read elsewhere that Starbucks is struggling because they focus too closely on their app ordering, which allows customers to order ahead, then pick up the order through the drive-thru, come inside, grab the items, and go or stay. The problematic, unintended consequence is that the app process further removes the customer from the barista. What made Starbucks so successful was the bond formed between the customer and the barista, knowing their name, asking about their day, and knowing their preferences. The customer's willingness to pay for expensive coffee was not just the drink but the barista's presence with the customer. It was like having a friend who made coffee for you each day.
Corporate professionals reaching out to Divinity Schools or customers missing their barista more than the coffee is a reminder that meaningfulness and being focused and present with others is a powerful act. Even making a person's coffee becomes profound and sacred when one acts by being fully present and compassionate. Our spiritual call is to strive to remain present prayerfully and focused on the other persons with whom we interact. Being interested and kind can be a sacred moment. Trust God to bring those who need your presence and kindness to you. Be ready to smile, listen, and offer empathy.
