MAC - Week 4 Reading

"This was by no means a rational or practical decision for Slava; it came from his passion." This quote from Chapter 9 has to be one of my favorite quotes in this book! I seem to spend a lot of tine in this irrational and impractical realm. As with EMDT, I did not tell many people that I was enrolling in another Master's program. It was totally irrational and impractical. I didn't want to hear the negative comments and doubts. I just wanted to freely pursue my passion.


God had blessed me so much. I also live in this sweet spit with my students. I have it bad for seeing my students lives transform before my eyes. I love seeing them grow and develop in confidence and skill set. I love hearing their realizations and reflections, as a result if attending conferences and working in special projects in class. As a result, I really do too much. But I see myself as a door to opportunities. As teachers, we has access to so many opportunities. Often these opportunities require my wiling participation. What if I block a door that one of my students needs to enter, in order to connect with their purpose or a better future?


Certainly, I take no glory for this passion. It is a gift from God. It is part of may calling. It is part of what i was created to do. That is why it is my passion.

From Chapter 10, the concept of "being the board" is very interesting and useful.  I like the instruction on how being the board is not assuming the blame for situations that are out of our control.  It is about seeing situations from a solutions oriented perspective where benefit can be gained from situations that would otherwise be negative. In the final analysis, it's all about not accepting defeat or selling ourselves on the inevitability of defeat. It's all about maintaining a mindset that is open to possibilities that will bring victory, instead of victimization.




Chapter 11 "goes there!"  Goes where?  The authors explain vision.  In the Holy Scriptures, Proverbs 29:18 reads, "Where there is no vision, the people perish."  While the Bible does bring some distinction between vision and dreams, the two are so closely related. Both require the ability to see.  In the beginning of Chapter 11, the author speaks of Dr. Martin Luther Kings, Jr. and the historic "I Have a Dream Speech."  The author made a profound comment regrading Dr. King.  He said, "[Dr. King] demonstrated with body and soul that dreaming can make a difference."  Isn't that powerful?  Undoubtedly, dreamers have vision. They have vast imaginations and abilities to see how "things" have the potential to be.  It is definitely possibility thinkings. Dreamers -and I will add visionaries - have the ability to imagine the world or a place or people reaching their potential.  These images reach beyond limitations and inadequacies to see the very best in people and the very best in situations - in spite of any opposing messages.


One of the communities where I am a citizen is in dire need of leadership.  Managers abound. Their competence is to be applauded.  They should stay in place to help the community move forward.  However, we need a leader at the helm.  We need a visionary who had the ability to communicate a vision for improvement that can be shared by all stakeholders. We need someone who can see and believe and carry the community back to a place of seeing the possibilities.  It has been a dry and thirsty land without a leader. By the way, vision is organic to leadership.  To say we have a leader is to say we have someone with vision.

In conclusion, in Chapter 12, I really like the WE perspective. Because so much faith and is belief is invested in idea of scarcity, many believing there is a shortage of opportunities. In every situation, for someone to win, someone else has to lose. People are conditioned to thinking that there can't be a favorable solution for all parties involves. Someone must lose. It is really powerful for the authors to present this bountiful perspective that provides coaching on how to communicate interest and investment of both or all parties.

MAC - Week 4 Wimba

I read the Power of Positive Thinking about 15 years ago.  At the time, I was fresh out of college, self-employed, and running into a lot of the challenges that new business owners face. The book really helped me to think positively about the issues I was facing.  It gave me a perspective of how to train my thoughts in the right direction.


The Art of Possibility is an interesting book.  My first blog post about the book detailed my thoughts about the essence and true source of the information.


I am not opposed to self help books, I just have to be honest and say that my primary self help book is the Bible. The human mind is an interesting mass.  It is a mass that is capable of complex functions and operations; however, that is not enough for me.  Regardless of intelligence level, the human brain is a finite machine. In the Book of Romans, Chapter 12, the Bible says to be transformed by the renewing of you mind.  Typical self help books are great, but there are limitations.  I prefer to receive God's promise that I have the mind of Christ.  I don't have to work to focus on positive things.  I can educate myself on who I am in Christ and simply receive that nature.  What nature?  The nature that II Corinthians 5:17 promises:   Anyone who is in Christ is a new creature and old things are passed away.  I'm sure this sounds crazy to some.  But, that's how I survive and overcome in life. When challenges or situations seem insurmountable, I realize that my mind needs to be renewed to the truth of who I really am:  more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus.  When I feel defeated, overwhelmed, or experience emotional challenges, the only materials that really help me are those that remind me of who I am because of Christ Jesus.  That is where I find victory and the foundation, vision and perspective to set goals for the future.

Taste and see that the Lord is Good! Psalm 34:8

MAC - Week 4 Discussion - My Dream Workspace

MAC - Week 2 Wimba

Obviously, copyright is as BIG topic!  For my Action Research project, I worked with choral students.  I know how much music motivates students.  Of course, we have iMusic loops, etc. and we can produce our own music. BUT, music that the students already love and recognize have such a greater impact when you want to get their attention.  Really, what is wrong with making a video for my classroom and using a song that the students already know and love to help teach the lesson? 

During Wimba, some were commenting in the chat box on the use of movies as teaching tools.  Movies are such great teaching tools.  It’s one of those situations where I wish that companies could spend one day in a public school classroom.  By no means to I depend on media like that.  In fact, I haven’t used it all that much –comparatively speaking.  I’m just saying:  when there is a concept that I want to teacher and there is a great movie or song or movie clip that demonstrates the principle, what is really wrong with me using it to demonstrate the point?  When movies are written, isn’t the purpose of the work to communicate certain themes, etc.?  Isn’t that part of the art?  So, there’s this great message out there that is communicated by this great song or great movie that hits the nail on the head artistically because it is a near perfect representation of what the artist wanted to communicate, but it can’t be used for instruction. 

Image from Microsoft Clip Gallery

I am an avid believer and supporter of artists getting their share.  I want people to be totally and completely blessed by the work they produce – financially, emotionally, and every other way.  Consumers should do the right thing and purchase music.  I just think a lot is lost when creative expression –that is I assumed was intended to reach people does it’s job and there are such excessive limits placed on it.

During Wimba, Pete commented on how the paradigm is shifting.  He is a lot more familiar with –I will say- the industry than I am.  I look forward seeing what changes are ahead.  I am so excited that there are so many ways for artists to get their work out there.  The technologies that have brought music production to the laptop computer level are doing so much for musicians to get their work out there:  mom and pop shop musicians can bypass corporate conglomerates and have an international audience, be it large or small:  Beautiful!  As I continue to process this, for me, I think the bottom line is that I struggle with the amount of control that is exercised over human expression.  I don’t have an answer.  I don’t know if there is an answer.  From watching Good Copy, Bad Cody; it is obvious that the answers are as diverse as the cultures, customs and people who produce the creativity we consume.

MAC Week 3 - Response to Stacey Kramer's Blog

http://www.kvtechnosnake.blogspot.com/2012/06/mac-wk-3-reading-teaching-students-how.html

Chapter 6-8 in "The Art of Possibility"  all go hand in hand. You have to give up some control if you want to live life to the fullest... and you can't live your life to the fullest without passion, mistakes and being human. I love sharing stories about my life with my students - I believe you have to find a common ground - a bond. This opens the doors and they share back, but most importantly, they see that I am a real person. I am not someone who lives at school, I am not a rock star, or someone who is untouchable - I am a person who cares about their learning, more importantly I care about them as individuals. I love to hear their ideas about lessons, the classroom and life.

I used to be a control freak (still am in certain areas) - then I had kids and realized something had to go. I had to learn how to give up control over. I realized that having all the papers graded in one night or the house spotless before bed, was not as important as hangin with the family. I love learning new things, keeping up with trends, and that is why I started my EMDT journey. But, my strive for perfection kicked in and my school work and family suffered. This master's was a journey and I learned again that control had to be given up in order for all to learn. I didn't want my family to fear me when I was doing EMDT work, I wanted them to see that learning is a lifelong experience to be enjoyed.

My response

Stacey, I’m so glad I read your blog again.  Every time, I get something I need. I really appreciate how openly you shared from your EMDT journey; especially during this time when I feel as if my EMDT journey is full of potholes and congested intersections with the other parts of my life.  I thought completing the regular school year would make it easier; however, I had not fully considered the travel commitments that I have to students and the quantity of reporting due to my school.  I am so overwhelmed, and what I have mentioned is additional to my family life.  Our lives really are very fine balancing acts, aren’t they?  It’s like sweet relief to realize what we need to do to realign priorities and let go of whatever needs to go!  Isn’t it amazing how we can hold ourselves captive to certain expectations?  I appreciate your realization of EMDT as a learning experience for your family.  Your concern for the long-term effect on your family is commendable. Wise parents leave an inheritance for their children.  I honor your sensitivity to the inheritance of a love for lifelong learning that you desire to sow into your children’s lives. You have made a rich deposit, my friend…a very rich deposit!

MAC Week 3 - Response to Tamarah Costen’s Blog

http://www.tamarahcosten.blogspot.com/2012/06/mac-week-3-reading.html

Tamarah's Original Post:

"Leading from any chair"

I really enjoyed this set of chapters, as well as the ones I did before.  Each chapter is so intricately written.  I learn a lot of nuggets throughout! They always confirm various things that are going on in my life!

The 5th chapter mainly attested to me that you have to be comfortable with being a leader in any phase of life.  Even if you are not the conductor or head musician, or maybe even not the administrator of a school, but be equipped and assured that you can lead and take ownership from wherever you are.

My mom always says the quote, "Be Faithful in another man's vision, and God will bless you to lead your own vision!" I strive to live this way as much as I can.

Chapter 6

"Rule Number 6"

Don't take your self too seriously!! That was extremely simple of a concept! I liked the way the author described this concept.  He mentioned how professionals take themselves too seriously.  He also brought up the scenarios of taking your relationships too seriously.  Better communication, better sex, better days in general are all due to being light and not too serious.  A wife shared, she was having issues with her husband, and that she couldn't imagine having better sex with her husband, until she adopted the concept, number 6 rule, not taking yourselves too seriously.

I am usually a humorous in majority of my day to day situations.  I do have to remind myself to not take myself too serious when it comes to business, work, and sometimes relationships.  I truly understand why the author conveyed this message in this chapter.                    

Chapter 7

" The Way Things Are"

This Chapter was very profound! It reminds me of how the, "Secret" was written. Things are already in place and circumstances will happen, but how you perceive it, makes the difference.

The author mentioned a couple going on a vacation in Florida.  When you go to Florida, you expect sun, perfect weather, sun-bathing, beaches, good food, rest, etc.  Well this couple had an entire vacation full of rain.  What kind of vacation is that?  That is our first natural response, but if you change a few words in your thought process or if you change your mindset about your vacation, you will make the best of your vacation.

Chapter 8

"Giving Way to Passion"

This chapter is all about releasing your passion and letting go of barriers that hold you down.  I love the way the author identified with barriers and strongholds.  This reminds me of the whole lesson in the bible that details the concept of Faith. Having Faith without the evidence of seeing what God has in store for you!

I'm passionate about many things, music, art, entertainment, production, church, God, love, relationships, business, comedy, education, family.   I could honestly say that daily, I try to contribute to all of my passions.  I would love to totally be passionate and not let anything hold me back for my dreams!

My Reponse:

Tamarah, it is obvious that you are enjoying the book and getting a lot from the points the authors offer.  I’m sure the reading is beneficial during this strategic and transitional time in your life and career.  When we have spoken, we have not talked specifically about your next moves in your career; however, from your blog, your perspective is exciting! You definitely have a strong concept of purpose and leadership and connection of your vision with others. I’ve found that it is so important for us to be aware of how our lives are connected with the lives of others and what we have to offer each other.  Undoubtedly, through your faith, your perspective or ability to see the benefit in challenging or contrary situations, in addition to the passion you have for your work will land you exactly where you are supposed to be.

MAC Week 3 Reading

For this week’s blog, we will journey through the chapters.  For Chapter 5, which is entitled, Leading from Any Chair, interesting questions were posed:  How can we make a difference in the people we’ll influence each day? How do we listen to those who help us make our dreams become reality?

I believe the biggest difference that we make in people’s lives is to recognize their strengths and to support their weaknesses.  I believe it is the jobs of leaders to be chief observer of those they are responsible for leading.  In my career switcher program, our teacher always told us that teachers have the ability to speak students into existence.  Sometimes people have been so discouraged and degraded that they don’t have confidence in their abilities.  It is empowering for leaders to tell people how valuable their specific skill set is to the organization. I also believe it is the leaders’ responsibility to help their colleagues, employees, etc. become strengthened in areas where they are weak or need improvement. Encouragement, not criticism should be the operational mode.  Instead of constructive criticism, I prefer offering feedback.  I’m not trying to be politically correct, I just know words are powerful. Criticism is so damaging, and I don’t like the idea of people being critical of others. I believe leaders should offer people feedback on how to improve their practice, not tear people down with demeaning words and personal opinions.  I believe in practicing the highest regard for human life and dignity. The human resource is our most valuable Earthly resource. We should do everything in our power to honor and respect people and the unique gifts, talents, and abilities they contribute to the world.

On to the next question:  How do we listen to those who help make our dreams become reality?  I love this question!  We pay attention to them.  We pay attention to what they say.  We process what they say.  We pay attention to their actions.  We pay attention to what they don’t say.  We listen for who they are and look beyond their personal idiosyncrasies to see their heart and their intentions.  As leaders, we help them develop into people whose intentions and actions are aligned.  We listen for their fears and help them see beyond them to believe in themselves and their abilities.  This really ties in with one of my favorite quotes from Chapter 5…

…the true power [of a conductor] derives from his ability to make other people powerful… [Zander] began to ask [himself] questions like “What make a group lively and engaged?” instead of “How good am I?”

Shaka Smart, coach of the Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) basketball team said, “It’s amazing what a team can accomplish when no one cares who gets the credit.” I believe comments like this epitomize the nature of leadership. They are demonstration of a philosophy that obviously focuses on the power of the collective.  Of course, in order for the collective to be strong, each individual member must be strong, but not strong for self.  The strength is in knowing that their individual contribution is necessary for the collective to be successful.  What makes a group lively and engaged?  I believe a group is lively and engaged when they know they are valued and that their individual contributions are significant, necessary and appreciated.  It is each individual member knowing that for their team to be the best, they must aim to be the best in their particular role.

So, on to the gleaning from Chapter 6… It was this: “Don't take yourself so seriously. Life is a journey--enjoy and learn along the way. Live, laugh, and love!!”  Wow!  This week I am at a conference.  I was speaking to one of the students.  He is a colleague to my student who is attending the conference.  He wanted to know which student was my student. When I told him, he said, “I’ve talked with Tyesha. She’s pretty funny. We need some humor during these things.” I love youth!  They will tell you how it is.  Sometimes we just need to relax and laugh and free ourselves to have a good time.  Often, being a responsible adult isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.  Whenever we can take a break from the serious issues of life and just enjoy ourselves like children, I think it reenergizes us toward our purpose and gives us fresh vision to see beyond ourselves. If we begin to take it easy on ourselves, not take ourselves so seriously, then we will not be as afraid to make mistakes.  We will be freer to learn and explore and take risks, instead of playing it safe all the time.  We will reap the freedom to leave our comfort zones and venture out into the land of possibilities!

For Chapter 7, The Way Things Are, there was a thought provoking statement followed by a question:  “Sometimes settling for the way things are is a lowering of expectations, sometimes it’s finding a starting point so that one can make things better. Where are you in this continuum?”  Here’s my answer:  I don’t settle well.  I need to see things around me improve.  I don’t like stagnation. It’s not a good sign. It symbolizes a build-up of harmful bacteria and there is not an atmosphere for growth.  Problem! So, I would say that I come to terms with how things are, so that I can deal with situations from a realistic standpoint, identifying where we are and envisioning and planning for where we need to go.

Finally, we move on to matters regarding Chapter 8, Giving Way to Passion. “Control says that the only way to avoid disappointment and frustration is to not care at all. No hits, no runs, but most importantly, no errors. What are you doing in your daily life that expresses your passion or the things you are passionate about?” I am extremely passionate about educating students. So, I work very smart and very hard to provide life-changing and skill-developing opportunities and experiences for them. I put a lot of heart and a lot of passion into making sure that students are aware that they gain something real and valuable from my instructional program.