Looking at South Korea’s education system with fresh eyes, I realized just how much I, too, had grown up within a distorted view of history and a standardized educational system. Fortunately, my experience with an American-style education at an international school during my childhood laid a solid foundation, allowing me to bear healthy fruit—rather than wither completely—during my middle and high school years. During college, my curiosity about entrepreneurship led me to experience failure firsthand, which in turn allowed me to gain exposure to startup and global corporate cultures relatively early on. Furthermore, in my 30s, while living abroad as an expatriate, I observed the global expansion of Korean companies firsthand, which helped me discover the career path and role that best suited me.

I am grateful that I can instill a more discerning educational perspective in my two sons so that they do not repeat these same trials and errors. It seems that my children, who received a public education in the U.S. during their early years, have developed roots that are even deeper and stronger than my own. Watching my two sons—who personally encountered God during high school, were baptized, and gained assurance of salvation through their confession of faith—I feel reassured, as if I have two sturdy arrows ready in my quiver. Throughout this journey, my wife served as a spiritual supporter through her devoted care and prayers. Thanks to her, the children were able to grow up emotionally stable and healthy. I am deeply grateful as a parent that they have grown into creative children, grounded in values and healthy thinking that are both similar to and distinct from their Korean peers.

As we were about to enroll our youngest son in school and were praying together with my wife about which school to choose, I felt a conviction in the midst of peace that God would truly use this child in a special way. Our youngest, who shows greater emotional and intellectual maturity than his older brothers, is a special child born into much love—different from his brothers in his own unique way. His ability to empathize with and care for others is remarkably mature, and his curiosity and creativity are also on an astonishing level. Perhaps this is because we have shared more conversations and playtime with him than with his older brothers, or perhaps it is because he was born during a time when he received an especially great deal of parental love.

Now, I am wrestling with the two paths before him: whether to send him down the broad path of education that many people take, or to send him down a relatively narrow and rugged path. Especially in an educational environment where standards have been lowered to the lowest common denominator, this decision is by no means easy. Thinking about how his future will change depending on this choice makes me even more cautious. Coincidentally, the opening of the Incheon Songdo branch of Korea International Christian School has improved accessibility, and with its online-focused curriculum, tuition is reasonable—presenting a great opportunity.

Just as Abraham left his homeland, relatives, and father’s house to go to the land God would show him for blessing, I too have resolved to put faith first and listen to God’s voice. Since the safest and best path is to abide in God’s Word, I pray that I may guide my youngest son along that educational path. Hoping that my family and I will one day look back on this choice with gratitude to God, I begin today with vigor through my early morning prayer.