Meaning

My mind is blown by how rejuvenating, refreshing, and spiritual todays class was.  Kuddos to the "Meaning" group!  It had been so long since I had taken time for stillness to just contemplate my life, reflect upon where I've been, where I am and where I want to go.  Today was full of self-exploration and reflection on the meaning of life.



Winnie the Pooh was one of my favorite characters growing up and as an adult I envy the time he takes to ponder and "think, think, think" about things.  Sure he speaks and moves slowly, but at least he takes time for himself just to ponder the wonders of the world and all its miraculous possibilities.

Pink spoke of Frankl's book Man's Search for Meaning and how he stated that "man's main concern is not to gain pleasure or to avoid paint but rather to see a meaning in his life."  pg. 217  Seeking meaning within ones life is a continuous, deep, and involved exploration that begins as a child and goes into elder years.  The meaning of life changes over time.  It has to be adapted, altered, re-evaluated, and nurtured.  The question then becomes...How can we guide our students in discovering their meaning?

We could use the activities mentioned in the portfolio section of Pink's book or take the activities completed in todays class and try them with our own students.  Yet, more importantly, I believe we need to set the tone within our classroom for this growth to openly occur and this starts by posing a question.  What is the meaning of life?  (In this class we are going to explore many facets of the world surrounding us, but we are also simultaneously going to be exploring ourselves.  It is crucial that you always wonder 'does this have meaning to me?'  if not, how can I make this more meaningful?)

I believe meaning should be an open option for conversation within the art room, for we are meaning makers.  Are we not? ;-)