"It is by teaching that we teach ourselves, by relating that we observe, by affirming that we examine, by showing that we look, by writing that we think, by pumping that we draw water into the well"
- Henri Frederic Amiel
About this Quote
This quote by Henri Frederic Amiel speaks to the idea that we discover and grow through the act of mentor. By teaching, we are able to discover more about ourselves and the world around us. Through relating, we can observe and get insight into the lives of others. Affirming enables us to examine our own beliefs and values. Showing allows us to take a look at the world from different viewpoints. Composing assists us to think more deeply and critically. Finally, pumping water into the well is a metaphor for the effort we put into knowing and growing. By putting in the effort, we can draw understanding and understanding from the depths of our minds. Ultimately, this quote motivates us to take an active function in our own knowing and development.
"One has children in the expectation of dying before them. In fact, you want to make damn sure you die before them, just as you plant a tree or build a house knowing, hoping that it will outlive you. That's how the human species has done as well as it has"
"Learning and teaching should not stand on opposite banks and just watch the river flow by; instead, they should embark together on a journey down the water. Through an active, reciprocal exchange, teaching can strengthen learning how to learn"
