Remembering

I'm a huge believer in wisdom. Individual. Collective. And everything in between. This deep belief shows up within my journey of potential in an assortment of ways. A particular question though I ask of participants at some stage within a program day reminds me consistently of wisdoms depth, breadth and potential to empower. I'm always left feeling so privileged, inspired and grateful as students courageously open up and share what's real for them.

"Teachers open the door, but you must enter by yourself." - Chinese Proverb

If you've ever worked with groups you'd know the full spectrum of engagement, energy and contributions you get from different types of questioning within a reflection. Lets face it though, if you've ever interacted with other human beings you know this feeling as well (ever experienced a child's response of 'nothing' to the common question 'what did you do today?'). It's an element of the experiential learning process that I'm passionately curious about. I love being a facilitator; having the opportunity to be apart of experiences that foster exploring the possibilities, discovering potential and acting authentically.

"It's not what is poured into a student that counts but what is planted." - Linda Conway

So the question; it's definitely intentionally worded. Participants are asked what they remembered? Not what they did. Or learnt. Or saw. But what they remembered. I'll usually offer a short pause so the students can connect to what's being asked. The intentionality is a pathway for each individual to really tap into their own wisdom. What begins rising comes from a deep place, carrying with it a real sense of knowing. Then without fail the vast majority of those in attendance express they'd like to share with the whole group.

"Wisdom is the daughter of experience." - Leonardo da Vinci

It's not that this is the only reflection we use that elicits an enthusiastic, profound or perceptive response. But I'd say it's definitely one that I'll use when I want to really celebrate the wisdom that lies within us all. Sometimes we get caught in our heads and second guess, worry about or dismiss the wisdom that is resonating within from an experience. And what's even more disheartening is that we can as a result miss opportunities to make a difference in our own and others lives. So finding ways to remember, and then act from this heart space, seems like an important tool for us to practice if we are to bridge ideas into action.

"Learning is not a spectator sport: So lets PLAY!"