Rushing is the enemy of contemplation
By now, you've likely been teaching for a few weeks, or perhaps you're just about to begin. As I write this in early August, I'm preparing to return home.
This vacation, I did something different. I traveled to Brazil—an unfamiliar country—to visit my partner's family and childhood home. I didn’t plan anything in advance and even took off my watch. It was amazing how quickly my body adapted to a slower pace. Time, a construct we've created to connect and coordinate with each other in our complex world, became something I could finally let go of.
Each day, I woke up naturally to the sounds of nature on the farm, the sun shining in the city, and my internal clock. I ate when hungry, sometimes a full meal or a snack. With poor phone connections, I rarely used my phone, except in the hotel. This allowed me to observe truly—people, places, conversations, life. I noticed how much more engaged people were with each other than with their technology.
Surprisingly, in this state of minimal responsibility, my mind began to spark with ideas and reevaluate goals for the upcoming season. I felt immense gratitude for the rest and a renewed excitement for the future. Work provides us with purpose, but life is so much more.
During the trip, we hiked to a waterfall. The path was rough and challenging at times. Near the end of the hike, a sign read, "Rushing is the enemy of contemplation." It struck me how our fast-paced world leaves little room for contemplation, reflection, and enjoyment. I hope to bring this insight back with me: to find time to reflect on my life, the days I have, and the people in my world. I also recognize that we must find space to reflect as a means of continuing to grow.
Since returning, I've been firmly in GO mode, doing more than I realized. As I grow into this new season, here are a few ideas if you’re looking to simplify things:
- Reuse ideas: Using the same songs or warm-ups across multiple ensembles can help streamline preparations for a large gathering or future concert. (click on the link for my warm-up guide)
- Simplify theory/sight-singing lessons: Apply the same concepts across ensembles. For advanced groups, add dynamics and articulations for an extra challenge.
- Standardize lesson plans: Use a consistent format for your lesson plans. Create a template in Google Docs, then edit the necessary sections.
- Streamline paperwork: When filling out forms, save everything and reuse it for future events, simply updating dates and details. Class rosters and chaperone lists can remain consistent.
Feel free to let me know how else I can support you in the coming weeks.
