So often studying and the required passing of tests to prove our knowledge and understanding of a subject can cause such anxiety that it interferes with our ability to learn and to perform. Academic success can become a measure of who we are, instead of what we know, seemingly indicating whether we are smart or dumb, hardworking or lazy, worthy or unworthy. Who we are is frequently at stake, and that is not only a big mistake, it is hazardous to our sense of self.

This recipe for successful studying bread tries to put intellectual achievement in its proper perspective while providing us with the ingredients necessary for doing well. However, doing well is not proof that we are smart, hardworking or worthy. It is only proof that on that occasion we are doing well, and that should be meaningful in itself.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups of intelligence
• 2 cups of discipline
• 1/2 cup of excitement
• 1 cup of concentration
• 1 quart of strong desire
• 1 cup of curiosity
• 3 ounces of integrity
• 2 forward looks at your goal
• 1 cup of contained anxiety
• 3 tablespoons of stamina
• 1 bar of pride in your work
• 1 glow of satisfaction

Preparation:

Mix three cups of intelligence with 2 cups of discipline. When thoroughly blended, add 1/2 cup of excitement and allow to stand. Separately heat the quart of desire and 3 ounces of integrity. Bring to a boil and sprinkle in 2 forward looks at your goal. Allow to cool, then add to the mixture. Knead while adding the cup of contained anxiety and 3 tablespoons of stamina. Allow time for dough to rise.

Bake in a warm oven until golden brown, then rub slowly with the bar of pride, then dust with the glow of satisfaction.

Cut into bite sized cubes and eat one at a time as needed and desired for stability, energy and renewal.