Sunday 5 April 2020 / 21 Days Lock Down Reflection
Thinking back to moments that have had some significance, turning point or profound upheaval in my life to help keep me on track.
It was just over a year ago that I was given the opportunity to assist in the internship program with a group of young students who had arrived on our shores from the United States. The course was predominantly centered around photography. I had limited opportunity to share much knowledge in this sector, my function was primarily in the transit of the students to the designated photographic locations, assisting with the practical assignments where I could. These included Cape Point, Lions Head, Gaansbaai, Bettys Bay and Kirstenbosch to name a few. The experience made me realise I have a desire to share more of my knowledge with others, gained from my suitcase of life experiences and skills.
Remembering this group of young people who have all since graduated, your field of study predominantly in the environmental sector, my thoughts are with you at this very difficult time. The United States has been affected quite significantly by this pandemic. There were some difficult moments we passed through as a group. Remember the lessons of resilience. Stay safe and be patient. This world needs you and your gifts more than ever.
I’ve never really thought much of applying myself in a teaching role.
However, we all have latent gifts gathering dust on the metaphorical shelf. Gifts that potentially lie in waiting to be shared with the world. After all, is this not closer to our purpose in life? To strive to make the world a better place by enriching the lives of others?
Share, share, share! Even if you feel inadequate, incompetent, lacking sufficient skill. But to share authentically, I believe a certain level of humility is involved. A true leader is one that does not puff himself up on the podium of life, barking orders or instructions, cracking the whip of rules, bragging about accomplishments, stats and numbers, insisting on colouring inside the lines. We have enough of those in the world … and it’s a crying shame.
The greatest leaders and teachers have been those that have recognized the greatness in others, opening up a congruent space for stimulated growth, tapping in and harnessing the energy of those around them, so that these people start to recognise and utilize their hidden gifts and talents … always for the benefit of others.
Sadly this world has taught us all about the protection of self, the betterment of self, the elevation of self above others. It is a lie we have been sold, mostly driven by advertising companies and main stream media … and their simple formula is the continuous drive of the belief in SO MUCH lack, limitation and FEAR!
We have an opportunity during this time to rest, to recharge our batteries, to tap into the essential part of our being. I’m not suggesting we bury our head in the sand to what is happening in the world, but we might never get this chance again. It is an opportunity to really tap into ourselves, our deeper energy and strengths. We will certainly need it for whatever lies ahead.