In March, I was invited to UBC to participate in a panel on “Jobs Outside Academia” for students in the faculty of education. A friend and colleague, Heather Duff, suggested to the organizing committee that I be a part of the conversation because of the transformation of using my doctoral research in exciting and alternative ways through my work at the Centre for Loving Inquiry. These photos were taken by her.
Oh, I love red. I’m very loyal to my colours. Elizabeth Taylor
I was looking forward to the opportunity to speak to a room full of students, I was also nervous. Not only was I going to be the only woman on the panel, I also sensed that I might be the only one talking about entrepreneurship and the possibilities for pursuing our passion for teaching and learning in creative and innovative ways.
So I wore my red dress and blazer to arouse my confidence and chutzpah! And when it came time for me to speak, after all the men and a beautiful introduction by Heather, I called on my joy and extensive experience as a poet, performer and facilitator to help me share the words that felt true in my heart.
As I spoke, I acknowledged the process of transition that each student was going through, including the confusion and fear they might be feeling. It wasn’t that long ago that I was sitting in their place. I encouraged them to be gentle and easy with themselves as they navigated this uncertain time. That has been of such necessity for me.
Red, of course, is the colour of the interior of our bodies. In a way it’s inside out, red. Anish Kapoor
Like my other colleagues on the panel, I also invited the students to stay open to the unexpected, and to be curious about how their skills and education might meet the needs of others in their community.
As my business grows, I encounter more and more opportunities to be of benefit to others through the experience and knowledge I have gained. I also rely on the practice of Loving Inquiry, using writing, poem-making, and other forms to cultivate courage and compassion every step of the way.
Are you in a process of transition and feeling uncomfortable with or judgemental of your process? Would you like some support to move through in a gentler, kinder way?
Quotes from http://www.squidoo.com/allaboutred
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