Hidden Wholeness

Oh the dialectic of life! I smiled when I noticed that this chapter began with a quote from Thomas Merton, one of my favorite authors. As I began to read this chapter, I immediately understood why Merton was chosen. This idea of "hidden wholeness" existing in a mystical paradox is commented on often by the Trappist monk. I liked how Parker Palmer referenced this paradox back into his teaching style, suggesting that just as a person must have both solitude and community, a teacher must find his or herself not only in the students, but without the students as well.

I found it interesting how the author suggested that the human propensity to classify "profound truths" into abstract finalities was short sighted, but then proceeded to give six specific paradoxes that should be worked into a classroom. I think Thomas Merton would roll his eyes at such a systematic way of uncovering a sort of hidden wholeness in teaching. But I understand and appreciate the author's purpose and point: to make the process and progress a little more tangible. Especially the suggestion that the space should "welcome both silence and speech" and support "solitude and surround it with resources of community." Solitude and silence are so often refused in traditional learning environments; perhaps it is especially at environmental centers that these can be encouraged and cultivated - silent walks, solitude writing assignments, etc.

I attended a wilderness orientation during freshman year of college: a three week journey to Wyoming that featured rock climbing, caping, and a five-day hike. During one of the final days, we were split up into designated "beauty spots" and had to stay in solitude for three hours. It was intense, even for a lover of solitude such as myself! But I appreciated how such a learning environment can so easily allow for moments such as this.

I like the concept that being a good teacher has just as much to do with who you are as it does with what you know. I feel the same way about creative writing and so much else. It's all a process, as our author was talking about - a journey of becoming better, of knowing one's self more thoroughly, and being able to share and teach more genuinely and heartfelt.