I believe that every person I meet is a life lesson. The one thing I have learned in life is that people constantly surprise me. Although some might feel diverse thoughts, perspectives, and experiences are scary, I believe the content of one’s character is defined by what they learn from others.
I believe that every person I meet is a life lesson. Because of that, my dissertation began with the following statement:
The man or woman who proclaims devotion to the cause of liberation yet is unable to enter into communion with the people, whom he or she continues to regard as totally ignorant, is grievously self-deceived (Freire, 2004, p. 61).
This statement appeals to the multiple faces of my life. Dr. Sarah A. Mathews, PhD. the intercultural education scholar identifies with the cause; outlining the key pedagogical components necessary to prepare culturally competent teachers (Blah, Blah, Blah…hence the academic language…which, while reading is even boring me right now). So what does this mean? The practical teacher/ teacher-educator, “Dr. Mathews” “Ms Mathews” (and at some times “D. Mat”) sees this quote from another perspective. Those that know me know I love the kids that everyone else seems to give up on. To the teacher in me, this quote reiterates my belief that since all students can learn we have to have high expectations for each student in our class. However, this also reminds me that I cannot “save the students” but help them “save themselves.” In doing this I learn from those I teach. Finally, Sarah, the person, the individual, loves how this quote speaks to my soul. In other words, in order to know others we need to break bread, share meals, sit down and engage, and walk the earth in others’ shoes.
I believe that every person I meet is a life lesson. As people mature they often reminisce about the “good old days,” rehashing the difference that their generation made to society. We need to remember the wealth of knowledge that many generations in our life offer. For that reason I recognize the diverse environments that have shaped my learning experiences. I have learned standing in a kitchen, listening to grandmothers offer their cooking secrets or uncles recount old war stories. I learned life skills trekking through mud at Girl Scout Camp in southern Ohio or climbing through tropical rainforests in Costa Rica. Finally I recognize I have also learned while speaking to cab drivers in Washington, D. C. and Kenya, East Africa.
I believe that every person I meet is a life lesson. Because I believe that we can learn from every individual I also believe that youth can make a difference in their society. I was reminded about this statement recently, while watching a Pepsi Cola commercial. Listening to the tag line “Every generation refreshes the world,” I was reminded why I teach. I believe that youth can and should learn the knowledge, skills, and dispositions necessary to participate in shaping their society. In doing so, they will refresh their society. Our role as teachers is to inspire this, help them develop the skills to reach their potential, and then sit back and watch while the magic unfolds.
I believe that every person I meet is a life lesson. That is why I embrace everyday and every experience as a force impacting my life. Finally, because I believe that every person I meet is a life lesson I believe that I am a life lesson for every person I meet. This is the core principle guiding my personal and professional life. This is why I do what I do.
