Give Your Power Away

Yesterday I taught a class in my studio on making three dimensional hearts. I learned long ago that actions speak louder than words, so I usually demonstrate the techniques by creating a piece in class. Here I wrote using Sharpie markers directly onto the wood, then colored in portions of the letters with thick Sharpies. The stars are cut from a repurposed Braille bible, the letters are a mixed batch from wooden letters or stickers. The text is the Pledge of Allegiance which goes with the entire theme of honoring America. Once the entire piece is done I will post a full sized picture.

I did not really have a plan going in, other than to demonstrate and show them how. Once the class was over I finished these portions and have let it dry overnight. The students created AMAZING hearts themselves and we all had a blast! They asked if they could come back again soon to learn more…which is the greatest compliment anyone teaching anything could ask to receive.

I always forget how much I know and all that I have learned until I have to break it down for someone else to understand. It is amazing and humbling all at the same time. The saying goes that those who can do, those who can’t teach. I would totally disagree with that one…you cannot teach it unless you can do it. OR should I say you cannot teach it well if you cannot do it yourself. I had boring, horrible teachers in my days and who knew why they were teaching, other than to have a job. Passionate teachers, those who know and are willing to share and inspire, are few and far between.

All that being said, give thanks toady for a teacher from your life who set you on your current path. The one who knew it, could explain it, and brought life and energy into that room. They not only gave information they gave a piece of themselves so that you could be who you are today. They helped you become you and without their time and energy WHERE would you be? WHO would you be? And of course the next thought should be and HOW are you going to give that same opportunity to someone else? What can you teach or give to help others become who they are meant to be? Knowledge is power, and the kind of power that no one can take away. So take time this week to give your power away!