Real moments

Abstract

Can you remember a time when you were totally absorbed in the moment? When “the rest of the world” ceased to exist? When returning to your surroundings felt a bit jolting? If so, you may have experienced a “real moment.” Our “real moments” as teachers often happen when a stu­dent has an “aha!” experience. Or when we finally figure out how to present a confusing concept, and it works just the way we hoped. Or when there is such a meeting of the minds with fellow teachers that it feels like a wave of perfection has just rolled over us. And when they do occur, real moments can revitalize and invigorate us. The trick to relishing these real moments is to notice them. Then we can acknowledge and savor them as bits of bliss. According to Barbara De Angelis, “Real moments occur only when you are consciously and completely experiencing where you are, what you are doing, and how you are feeling . . . you are paying attention”. Paying attention is not neces­sarily as easy as it may seem. Having racing minds and darting attentions, we get in the habit of not paying attention. So may our students. What can we do to stop, drop, and be? Simply stop think­ing. Notice your surroundings. Listen and watch as others speak. Drop your hurry and worry long enough to breathe, feel, and notice what surrounds you. Be present to soak up all that your senses allow. You allow real moments to happen when you totally surren­der into whatever you are experiencing, and let go of trying to be in control.