The Unquenchable Thirst: A Journey Within The Constellation

[Dr. E. Mohamed Rafique]

Hook, Line, and Sinker: Ever since Rev. Fr. Macedo, a Jesuit priest,  who was my teacher for more than a decade in my school, asked me to define a student, and etched in my brain that the student was someone who studies or is studying; and as the word studying is the present continous form of the verb study, and so, should I not be continuously learning, revising, studying, without ever stopping?; I was gone, hooked for life, as a student of life for life!

A student of life for life: Thus, from the hallowed halls of academia to the intricate corridors of the United Nations, my life has been a continuous pursuit of knowledge. This insatiable thirst for learning is what initially drew me to The Constellation, and it remains the unwavering compass guiding my journey within this vibrant community.

Crystals of Learning: My tenure in the Knowledge Management Project (KMP) at the UN further solidified this commitment to learning. For, KMP, by its very nature, was a crucible of knowledge, a community of communities, harvesting the crystals of knowledge from all the sharing and collaborative learning, across all the development goals that the human brain could fathom, following the ideas and ideals of Chris Collison and Geoff Parcell. Thus, as Geoff was one of the founders of The Constellation, when I joined The Constellation, the very year I joined KMP, it felt like a natural extension of this lifelong pursuit. My primary intention was, remains, and will be, simple: to learn.

No Objections to other's dreams: However, I understand that motivations for joining a voluntary, not-for-profit organization like The Constellation are diverse. Some may seek designations, using titles as markers of achievement. Others might be drawn by the promise of rewards or recognition, tangible symbols of their contributions. Networking opportunities, the chance to connect with like-minded individuals, can also be a powerful motivator. Some may even seek to enhance their resumes, bolstering their professional profiles. Still others might join out of a sense of duty, a desire to give back to the community. 

Wildest, Highest Dreams: Thus, while I am at perfect peace with such intentions that others have, am I wrong in pursuing the extended dream of my favourite school Teacher? Accordingly, my nearly two decades of involvement with The Constellation offers a clear counterpoint to assumptions other than fondness for my Teacher that others could mis-read in me. For, here was I already living my wildest, highest, dreams, and what would I want more? Therefore, throughout my life, I have consistently prioritized learning over all other considerations. For, just as "basketball was for Michael Jordan" or "music was for Beethoven", learning was my raison d'etre or the very reason for me to be. So, I have never sought titles or positions of authority within The Constellation. Recognition and rewards have never been my driving force. And if I am a Voting Member, it is because Rituu, who since then, I called "the King Maker", pushed that crown on me! My focus has always been on absorbing new knowledge, sharing my existing expertise free, and contributing to the collective growth of the community, I am in. My record speaks for itself. I have never actively pursued any form of external validation within The Constellation. My engagement has been purely driven by the joy of learning and contributing.

In line with the Constellation's Values: Furthermore, The Constellation’s focus on community-led development and knowledge management aligns perfectly with my own values, and lately I have been researching and exhibiting that The Constellation values are in line with many other faith and non-faiths, as well. The organization's commitment to facilitating positive change at the grassroots level resonates deeply with my belief in the power of collective action. The emphasis on knowledge sharing and collaborative learning creates an environment where everyone can learn and grow. The spirit of SALT (Support, Appreciate, Learn, and Transfer), The Constellation’s Ways of Working, has profoundly shaped my approach to engagement. It has instilled in me a deep respect for diverse perspectives and a commitment to fostering inclusive dialogue.

The true reward: of my involvement with The Constellation lies in the intangible realm of human connection. The unbridled joy of responding to fellow human beings, sharing knowledge and skills, and performing acts of kindness is a profound source of personal fulfillment. This joy, born from the freedom to contribute without expectation of personal gain, is a treasure that no one can touch, tame, tear, or take away. It is the essence of true voluntary service, a gift freely given and freely received. It is the joy of freedom.

When the Journey becomes the Dream: In The Constellation, I found not just a community, but a sanctuary for the ever-curious mind. My journey here has been a testament to the enduring power of learning, a journey fueled by an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and the boundless joy of giving. It is a journey that continues, with each interaction, each shared insight, each act of kindness, further enriching the tapestry of my life. A journey that is a dream in and of itself!