by W. Diane Van Zwol

Created on: May 27, 2008

Teaching: A Golden Opportunity

The question "Why do we want to teach?" opens a wide doorway of infinite answers.
Perhaps there is no such thing as a perfect answer to this question, but there are a number of different answers that could and should be taken seriously.

1. We want to teach because we can teach.

The ability to teach is inherent within our human potential and ability. In fact, teaching is just one aspect of being really human and truly alive. The reality that it is possible for a human being to teach another human being, or even an animal, is quite remarkable in itself. We are extremely gifted as teachers and may not even realize it.

2. We want to teach because we know that the next generation needs to be taught, in order to survive.

Consider this reality for a moment. Historically, if no one had ever taught the next generation, the human race would have died out a very long time ago, so it is evident that teaching must be a normal part of survival. Interestingly enough, human beings teach other human beings, not only to survive, but even more remarkably, to thrive and thus progress continues.

3. We want teach because we have already acquired the knowledge and the skills necessary to teach.

Have you ever tried to teach something before you acquired the necessary skills or knowledge? It can be extremely difficult and very frustrating. Once we have the acquired the necessary skills and knowledge, teaching what we have learned to others, becomes a far easier and much more enjoyable task.

4. We want to teach because we have already been taught by others.

Once others have taught us something that we know has value, we are willing to teach it to others. In fact, if we are truly honest with ourselves, we must admit that for some strange reason, everyone loves to show off just a little bit and to pass along the knowledge and skills that have been acquired. Perhaps it is our natural inclination to boast that surfaces? What we have been taught may include the importance and necessity to teach others, as well as how to teach others what we have already learned.

5. We want to teach because we are inspired to teach.

There are those who teach others simply because teaching is a job, or to obtain an income, but those who are truly inspired to teach, find teaching is a far more rewarding and valuable experience than that. The inspiration to teach others can come from many different directions and it does. We must always be open to be inspired. It is also extremely important

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