MAC Week 3 Blog 1

Chapter 5 reminded us of a fundamental principle – there is no I in team.  Every member of a team has a significant and critical contribution that he presents to the overall project or goal.  Using the orchestra as method of demonstrating this principle, the chapter focused on the conductor as person in front that gets the recognition and blame, but each person playing an instrument is critical important to the piece being played correctly and beautifully.

“Lighten up, which may well light up those around you” is the liberating practice presented in chapter 6 of the book.  This very short phrase has a tremendous impact on me as an educator in a tested area in an high school environment as the pressure to have students perform at a certain level can sometimes cause undo stress that is easily transferred to our students.  This message was heard and received by me and others with whom I have shared it.

Chapter 7 helps us to assess the current situation in which we find ourselves, its impact and encourages us to focus intently on our next course of action based on the present circumstances.  This is a chapter full of wisdom for plotting a course for you life.

I often tell others to function professionally in a capacity which embodies that thing about which you are passionate.  Chapter 8 charges us with running face first into a dark room faithfully in the direction of our passion.  What an awesome charge!