Parting Words from Dr. Gary Elkins, Philosophy Professor
Recently The Talon requested that I reflect on the past 22 years teaching at TFC. I never cease to be amazed at how quickly the time has passed (you will notice this in your own life as you grow older). I can replay memories in my mind of distant notable occasions as if the events happened very recently.
My TFC story began in Colorado. My wife and two sons were living in Denver on April 20, 1999, when we witnessed the unfolding news about a mass shooting that occurred at Columbine High School, located in a south suburb of the city. On that horrific date, two active shooters killed 12 high school students, one teacher, and injured an additional 21 individuals by gunfire. In the following days, a gloomy “cloud” settled in over the whole city of Denver, and to some extent, the entire country. I mention this incident because we were already feeling quite discouraged about the lack of available teaching positions for philosophy professors. I had just completed the requirements for my Ph.D., but had no idea what, if anything, it would lead to. I lost count of the amount of resumes I sent out and the numerous rejection letters I received. But God, who is always faithful, had everything under control.
In just a few days after Columbine, when I was experiencing one of the lowest junctures in my life, and when I felt all hope was lost, I received a call from the chair of the Bible and Theology department of Toccoa Falls College who invited me to come to Georgia to interview for a philosophy professor position. The rest of the story is a testimony to God’s faithfulness. Indeed, beyond our expectations, not only was I was offered the position, my wife (Paula) was also asked to become the assistant to the president of the college (at the time – Dr. Alford). In addition, in answer to several specific prayers, the Lord provided us with a home within driving distance to my aging parents. Make no mistake, TFC has experienced some dark chapters over the past 22 years (as would be true of any Christian institution). And yet, we knew God called us very clearly to be here, and during some of the difficult periods, we could remind ourselves of how the Lord put all the pieces in place to make it possible for us to be part of this teaching ministry.
More than anything, I have fond memories of interacting with the students in and out of the classroom. We had, at times, a house full of students watching episodes of “Lost,” movies with philosophical themes, comical events (e.g., when a student accidentally released mace spray in the house, and we all had to evacuate), and end-of-the-year parties honoring the graduation of philosophy majors.
And so I leave with mixed emotions. I feel deep sadness at the thought of departing TFC. Furthermore, I’m experiencing some anxiety because I’m not quite sure what life after retirement will look like. Of course, I can’t say I’ll miss grading papers and other administrative duties. Still, I sense it’s the right time to move on to whatever the Lord has planned for our future. Finally, I am grateful to my colleagues, supportive staff, the administration, and especially to all the students over the years who have made it a rich adventure. Most of all, I thank the Lord for His grace, strength, patience, and faithfulness over these years.