Yesterday, Gavin shared a quote with me that I couldn't stop thinking about. It is credited to Einstein, although after doing a little research, that is debatable. But I admire the man so much, I'm going to join the camp that gives him the credit for such a thought.
“Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree,
it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.”
It gives voice to my passion of interest driven learning for children....actually, for all people. Children are born with such a strong desire to learn about the world around them. Then we stifle them by putting them in these institutions that tell (us & ) them what they have to learn when, even though they may not be ready or interested. So sad. Learning happens all the time for children, especially during play. We've robbed our children of being allowed to learn in the way that comes naturally to them. That reminds me of another thing Einstein said:
"Wisdom is not a product of schooling but of the life-long attempt to acquire it."
I love having these conversations with Gavin. Come to think of it, he reminds me a lot of Mr. Einstein. See that huge smile on his face...that is what reminds me of Gavin most. Always happy, eager to learn, wanting to share with me everything even when I don't comprehend it (like XOR's...whatever that is). What a joy to watch our children grow, develop interests and dreams outside of our own, pursue knowledge in areas we didn't even know existed and still hold on to the joy of life and learning and living.
