This was inspired by a conversation that I had with a fellow martial artist when discussing the Cycles of Learning. I was presented with this quote and asked to share my thoughts.
“The teacher is a student teaching. The student is a teacher learning.”
When I hear this phrase, the first thing that comes to my mind is Circular Learning and how the cycle of learning is a never-ending experience……unless you decide to end the cycle. All teachers have started as students, but not every student makes the conscious decision to transfer their learning to others. Similarly, every Black Belt has entered the dojo with a White belt on, but not every Black Belt has embraced the task of educating the next generation of students. The Teacher is a result of their student’s passion, enthusiasm, doubts, and concerns towards the knowledge and information presented to them. The Student is a reflection of the care and attention put towards these aspects by the Teacher. Teacher and Student co-exist as one. The cycle of learning comes to a halt on both ends when the connection is severed. This phrase resonates with me because I believe it is a reflection of my experience at the dojo and what I aim to demonstrate in my everyday life when I am presented with the opportunity.
By Shaemar Anderson,
AMA Blackeblt
