The Teacher is but a Student…

There’s nothing I find sadder than when I hear someone proclaim (in either words or deeds) that they know everything there is to know about a subject or, even worse, about everything.  Why?  Because I believe that when we stop learning, we stop growing, and then we just die.  There’s no reason to live if you’re not learning.

I never claim to know everything about anything… lol… Fate has a way of proving me wrong.  While I’m happy to teach others what I know, to share the wisdom I’ve already gleaned from life that another might not have been exposed to, yet, I’m also an avid student.  I read books on subjects other people think of me as an “expert” in… Even books that would be considered a beginner’s guide can have information or present a viewpoint that someone well-versed in the subject might have overlooked.  I’m humbled by the sources of some of life’s greatest wisdoms… for example, my cat has taught me a great many things about life and what should be important – about slowing down and taking time to just contemplate the birds outside the window for a moment (though I’ll pass on the soaking up a little sunlight, as it is medically dangerous for me).

And then there are the subjects I don’t know much about.  There’s always something new and interesting to learn, if you can find someone to talk to who is open-minded and willing to answer off-the-wall questions (which I’m typically full of!).  A good-natured debate can provide a wealth of information, and taking the time to just listen to another person’s point of view can provide understanding that might otherwise escape us…

By knowing and understanding, we achieve a high consciousness… But by learning and listening, we evolve beyond the bounds of the human mind and body, and grow into our immortal souls.  This is what I truly believe, in my deepest heart.  And so, if you see me with a book that you think should be for a beginner, or hear me speak with someone whose beliefs aren’t my own, know that I’m gleaning more knowledge for my quest of enlightenment.

~ by esthermitchell on April 8, 2009.