Teaching and Learning (A Meditation for the End of the School Year)

Rev. Michael Tino

As we near the end of the school year, I offer this meditation written to celebrate the learning community that is the congregation.

We are all teachers. We are all learners.

We are, every one of us, in the process of becoming. None of us is done. None of us is perfect. None of us is alone on this journey.

We are all teachers. We are all learners.

We learn from one another. We understand that the connections we make here in this community teach every one of us something of how to be better people.

We are all teachers. We are all learners.

We learn from the boldness of others. From the inspiring figures of our history. From the prophetic voices in our midst. From those willing and able to meet injustice and evil with resistance.

We are all teachers. We are all learners.

We learn from the vulnerability of others. From those who hurt, those who cry, those who admit their brokenness. From those who dare ask that a new way be made that makes room for them at the table.

We are all teachers. We are all learners.

We learn from the experience in our midst. From elders who have reflected on their lives. From youth who claim their own power.

We are all teachers. We are all learners.

We learn from those who meet the world as if it were new and fresh in each moment. From those who wonder at the unfolding of nature. From those who ask questions.

We are all teachers. We are all learners. And we find blessings in our religious communities, where this can always be so.