I loved the circular diagram representing the community of truth. Just looking at it you can see the listening, sharing, responding, reflecting patterns of communication occurring. Learning occurs as all these processes are happening with open minds and hearts willing to absorb it all, digest it and maybe even change their preconceived notions about an idea. As Palmer states, "Openness to transcendence is what distinguishes the community of truth from both absolutism and relativism." The process of truth-telling and truth-knowing is a "dance of intimacy and distance, of speaking and listening, of knowing and not knowing...". True learning is a cyclical pattern that requires us to be open to new thoughts and ideas, and as teachers we need to allow time for the sharing, listening and discernment to take place in an open environment.
My favorite part of the chapter referred to "the grace of great things." This spoke to me particularly as a Catholic school teacher. I recognize the "ultimate" great things that call us together such as the Holy Spirit working through us as teachers. The virtures of the grace of great things such as diversity, ambiguity, creative conflict, honesty, humility and free learners are all evidenced in scripture and the teachings of Jesus Christ. When we stay rooted in these foundations our classroom becomes a sacred place and we learn to use "soft eyes" to take in more of the world.
Angie - you brought up what I think are the two great parts of this chapter! I too can see how classrooms should be built on the basis of community and sharing in learning. Then the grace of all things is the heart of what makes a wonderful classroom. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
ReplyDeleteAngie, Open heart and open mind are essential to be a good teacher. Real learning takes place where there is mutual sharing of ideas between the teacher and the students. Holy Spirit does guide us and lead us in our efforts.
ReplyDeleteAngie- I totally agree with you about that a classroom should be build upon community. Without the feeling of community in a classroom the students would not feel safe to share their thoughts. I think that you have a open mind and heart and that your students probably see that too and are able to feel comfortable and safe in your classroom. Your spirituality and enthusiasm for teaching is inspiring.
ReplyDeleteI also like what Palmer said about the great things being non-human---the creation of things. I love that you said that those virtues that the "grace of great things" bring about are found in Scripture. Humility being one of the most important ones!!!
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