Bearing Witness: Reflections for Educators

In "Bearing Witness," Bernie Glassman invites us to explore compassion, presence, and adaptability as pillars for working with people from different backgrounds and experiences. These teachings can be incredibly valuable in education, where teachers face the challenge of connecting with diverse and ever-changing students.

Compassion allows us to see beyond differences and connect on a deep human level.

In the classroom, compassion helps us recognize and respect the unique experiences of each student. By adopting a compassionate perspective, teachers can build bridges between diverse cultures, abilities, and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive learning environment. This approach not only enhances the educational experience but also prepares students to be empathetic and conscious citizens.

Bearing witness is not just observing, but actively participating in another's experience. Actively listening to students is essential to understanding their needs and challenges. This level of bearing witness allows teachers to identify barriers and provide the necessary support. By actively engaging, educators can create an environment where students feel heard and valued, which in turn promotes deeper and more meaningful learning.

Adaptability allows us to grow and respond effectively to the challenges we face. Adaptability in teaching is crucial in an ever-changing world. Teachers must be willing to adjust their approaches and strategies to address the individual and collective needs of their students. This flexibility not only improves teaching effectiveness but also models adaptability skills for students, preparing them to navigate an uncertain future with resilience and creativity.

Integrating the principles of compassion, presence, and adaptability into our teaching practice not only enriches our approach but also has a profound impact on our students' experiences. By applying these teachings from "Bearing Witness," we can create a more inclusive, empathetic, and effective educational environment. I invite all my fellow educators to reflect on these ideas and consider how they can incorporate them into their daily work.