As Autumn begins to surround us and the temperature blissfully falls, my thoughts are filled with notions of completing tasks before winter descends. It is my favorite time of the year because of all the opportunities the Fall offers us: starting new semesters with new students, making leaf piles, creating spooky Halloween costumes, taking crisp weekend get-aways, writing in my journal and taking naps. Most of all I think of Autumn as a time for reflection. Process Education offers us many ways to use reflection to sharpen our self-awareness and search for ways we can improve our knowledge, skills, and our lives. The Academy Self-Growth project is one example of how reflection has led to productive realizations for many participants. This quotation from Confucius about how we learn connects with my interest in reflection and in the Academy.
By three methods we may learn wisdom: First, by reflection, which is noblest; Second, by imitation, which is easiest; and third by experience, which is the bitterest.
Confucius
In my courses, I often tell my students that instead of checking off their degree credit list as quickly as possible they might choose to focus on learning something that enriches their knowledge and understanding of our world. Taking a pause to reflect and consider new information is one of the key benefits of seeking a college degree. Making wise choices is a struggle for many people. Much of our society seems to encourage the opposite. The ability to reflect and take time to consider new perspectives is a prerequisite to making “Wise Choices”.
In the rush to speed through modern life like a video game we need to slow down. Perhaps we need to pause and shift from a high-speed confrontational dialogue to a wiser discussion of how to solve problems. Of course, this isn’t a new need. By witnessing the tragedy of the age-old conflict between Israel and Hamas we can see the horrific consequences of acting swiftly based on ignorance and prejudice. Despite the crippling horror of what is taking place in the Mideast, I reflect on how my work and the work of others can contribute to lasting meaningful change. Can another way of teaching and learning emerge from fostering reflection? Can learners benefit from taking time to reflect and consider alternative paths? Can the predictable change of seasons foster reflection and new discoveries? Are we perpetually stuck on the battlefield, or can we change the paradigm and encourage reflection and wise choices?
In leading the Academy into the future, our Board is working to practice reflection as we ponder the future of our organization. As the seasons change, we will be considering our Strategic Plan and the future direction of this organization. As we consider that future, we need all Academy members to join in on that reflection. Make a wise choice and take time to read our newsletter. Seek out ways to participate in our Professional Development offerings, join the Self-Growth community, make a presentation at our annual Conference or attend the Winter meeting. Get involved and reflect on what your membership in the Academy means to you.
