Do you believe that a person's perspective can have a great impact on their actions? That their thoughts about themselves inform their behaviors? That how they view the world creates the world they live in? If you answered yes, then you'll understand how powerful and transformative a positive, inclusive and constructive life-philosophy can be.
"If you want to awaken all of humanity, then awaken all of yourself. If you want to eliminate the suffering in the world, then eliminate all that is negative in yourself. Truly, the greatest gift you have to give is your own self-transformation."
This sums up a teacher's purpose to me - to provide the conditions in which our students can grow, bloom and transform into who they are meant to be. Taoism values individuality, celebrates uniqueness, recognizes the importance of the journey and the process, of approaching things naturally and holistically. Taoism embraces soft skills and living from a state of 'flow', being in harmony with our surroundings and each other.
Our students face an uncertain future, and problems on a scale which we have not encountered ever before. A global climate crisis, rampant socio-economic instability and inequality, a rapidly shifting world with massive expectations and ever-growing demands... Now more than ever we are in need of values that Taoism promotes.
"Compassion leads to courage.
Moderation leads to generosity.
Humility leads to leadership."
I believe that a teacher's role goes beyond the instruction of a particular subject - we also have a role to play in developing a student's mindset and morality. It is therefore of the utmost importance that we are aware of this role, and think very carefully about what we are modelling for our students and what we allow to guide our actions in the classroom. I believe that Taoism has much to offer, both in and out of the classroom.
“Watch your thoughts, they become your words; watch your words, they become your actions; watch your actions, they become your habits; watch your habits, they become your character; watch your character, it becomes your destiny.”
― Lao Tzu
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