The Builder is creating a new space for our family. It is a simpler space, reflective of the changes happening inside of us and our children. It is a sacred work.
As he puts his hands and heart to the process, it is quite sweet to watch. He must visit each day, even on non-work days. He must inspect. He must be assured and reassured.
It is like he needs to know where each board is, how the roof will go on, which tree will sit where, and how the sun will shine throughout each day and year. The process is both calculated and flexible in his mind; daily being reworked. He abides in the space to understand its intricacies.
After building about 100 houses in the last 5 years, he is working with some new insights. They are being brought to bear in this new creativity.
Each success is celebrated and each challenge is grieved. It is a very intentional process. He is really great at bringing me in to make decisions and I am freeing him to oversee the process. It’s a dance that’s found its groove.
He also knows there is a gentle unfolding of insight.
He discussed the loft with me yesterday. We rehashed the purposes of the space, the aesthetic, and the furnishings. We discussed the children and where they are in our vision. We decided we will need to wait to see it, to discover.
As teachers and parents, we are also creating spaces for children. Kitchens and classrooms. I think we are extremely intentional about the backpacks and bulletin boards for fall.
But, I’m going out on a limb here…
What about the spirit we are bringing to our space?! Are we creating a space filled with trust, confidence, enthusiasm, and joy? Are we spending as much time on the spirit of our togetherness as we are on the function?
The sacred space of learning is much less about the bookshelf or back-to-school wardrobe and much more about the true work of learning that grows up in a wholesome and organic way.
Can we look at the “troublemaker” in a new way? Can we smile with the energy of it all? Can we breathe in empathy and breathe out judgment? Can we rejoice in all of the new learning experiences? Can we lean back into the current of the river, surrendered to the process?
In order for us to create a true Table of Learning, there can’t be judgment or defensiveness or accusation. There must be silence, softness, and surrender.
Teachers and parents, in this new age, we need to cultivate togetherness, connection, and collaboration with new intentionality. The culture wants to rip us apart. The demands and expectations feel crushing. The only way to create a new space is to consider the spirit of our togetherness.
Like The Builder, can we create and hold a sacred space of goodness for learning, experiencing, and growing?
Wishing you goodness today…
For the sake of the children,
Karine
PS I wrote extensively about this idea in my book. Part V of Learn Forward is all about the Table of Learning. Pre-order your copy today!