we had been scattered abroad in multiplicity.” -- St. Augustine
First, I’m sorry that
this post is late, but last night was “date night” – a night when Mary Ann and
I put aside all things work related, go out for a nice, but not too expensive
dinner, and discuss family matters. Last night was also one of those nights
when I sit and think about what I have learned about others and myself during
the week. I now understand that both the family discussion and my own inner
discussion are “reflective” periods.
I also know that my “critical friend”,
Mary Ann, has never given me bad advice or counsel in our thirty-two years
together. The family discussion rocked. I mostly heard - listened - understood.
My inner discussion resulted in some good eye-opening advice also. My
discussion with me helped me to realize that Augustine, his thoughts, and his
teachings must be one of the central focuses of my being an educator.
Second, I remembered that
Ron Algeo told us that a good sleep was necessary for learners because of that period
of sleep known as REM sleep and how it helps us to recall, organize, and retain learning.
Last night I got a good sleep. What came of it?
What came with it?
My best answer
for both questions would be the same – realizations and reassurances that I
needed.
Here are a few:
Realizations:
1. For an educator, there
is nothing more important than an exercise such as the one we are
experiencing this week.
We should continue
this practice.
2. Humility is such an
important ingredient for a teacher – I’ve been humbled by my experience sharing
thoughts with 16 people whom I admire, respect and trust because of the way
they model Augustine’s “Educator.”
As educators and students, I think we can
influence our colleagues.
3. Time to talk with a “Critical
Friend” and time to “Reflect” must hold importance in my daily
routine.
I hope I can count on all of you as
Critical Friends and Mirrors in the years to come.
Reassurances:
1. I can be a good
Twenty-First Century teacher. My classroom sign is still very relevant.
Don’t be afraid to adapt it to your liking.
Think!
Question!
Ask the Experts!
Find
Your Answer!
Check the
Sources!
Double-Check
Your Information!
Compare and Contrast Your Thoughts
Before and Your Thoughts Now!
Write
Your Thoughts and Offer Proofs!
Cite Your Sources!
Think Again!
2. Preparation time and finding methods have never been a problem. They will be different now, but they will make me a better educator.
3. I have been, and always
will be, an Augustinian educator. I didn’t quite know it before,
but our readings and thoughts on Augustine’s “Educator”
have made the fact clear.
4. There were no
coincidences involved in our gathering for this; the seeds of a bigger plan have been
sown, and the sprouting garden looks good.
Since you cannot
do good to all, you are to pay special attention to those who, by the accidents
of time, or place, or circumstances, are brought into closer connection with
you.
– St. Augustine
Don't forget to pay attention to yourselves also.
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