Compassion
I like to think of myself as compassionate, as someone who understands others’ heartache and trials and can share in the joy when their cup runneth over.
I had never experienced compassion in my area of study though, until this week.
I want to be a teacher. Since 7th grade, I have known I would one day share music with kids, adults, teenagers – basically whoever would let me wave my hands around in front of them and make music. I have been blessed to study my passion and hone my God-given gifts at a school with overwhelmingly brilliant professors and musicians. I have also been blessed this year with tutoring students who need help as they build piano skills or their knowledge of music theory.
After a week on the job as a tutor, all my weaknesses have been pinpointed as I tutor these hardworking music students. My patience has been tried, and my speech effectiveness has been pushed to its limit. The ability to explain a concept several different yet effective ways has been stretched, and I have experienced true compassion for these musicians for perhaps the first time in my life.
In college, we have the opportunity to gain knowledge about our passions. What happens when we hit a road block in that passion that makes us truly uncertain about our choices, our abilities and our prior experience? We either take necessary actions to fight through it or we get out before we truly fail.
Today I worked with a fighter—a brave girl who struggled to stay afloat in the accelerated class setting because of her lack of experience. My heart hurt as tears rolled down her cheeks in vexation. The humility she shared with me, a complete stranger, displayed the fight she needed to succeed, and I knew that I would do everything I could to help in her journey. I discovered a respect for all the students who battle for knowledge of their art. I was inspired to fight alongside them, offering my time and experience so they will not feel alone.
What an inspiring and convicting time it was, and a testament to how powerful compassion can be when channeled through teaching. It was a solid confirmation of my passion for helping those who truly need someone to fight by their side.
As long as I have the opportunity to teach and guide students toward achieving their dreams, I will do whatever I can to make that battle more manageable. After all, our dreams are what make each of us unique.
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