Human Pedagogy: Being Human
4 Words, 1 Quote, 1 Song For June
I have this huge list of really great things to think about when it comes to AI that I have been working on since the last newsletter. I almost hit publish and realized that it was not wanted I wanted to share in the moment.
I have worked, presented, written, invited podcast guests to help me think through AI and yet everything comes back to the idea of being human. Navigating the spaces of living in the world that now has AI.
So, with your permission I want to share some current thoughts on being human, a lifelong learner, and some words that have surfaced as you wrap up a school year if in education, prepare for kids at home all summer if you are a parent or grandparent, or quite simply embracing life in the summer.
Let me know if anything resonates
Simple: This weekend while doing yardwork my black lab, Mabel, found pure joy in chasing a small butterfly around the yard. There are times in which I could find bliss like this so easily and do think it is possible if you allow yourself to be….
Present: How often are we truly not present? We can easily get consumed by the things we feel we must get done, the over importance of tasks that are really not imporant, finances, work, kids, the list goes on and on. What would happen if we actually just stopped, leaned into whatever it is we are part of and was just present? I don’t know but it’s my challenge to myself and you in hopes you find that butterfly that brings joy.
Content: I am still unpacking this word and mindset because it does feel like a slippery slope. But sometimes it feels like we are never satisfied and always wanting the next thing(varies for everyone). What if we could be present and enjoy what IS instead of what COULD BE? I am terrible at this, but today I feel content. A space of calm where I realize I don’t need more. I wonder how many of us need time to just be content and how does that impact our ability to find the SIMPLE because it allows us to be PRESENT?
Speak: On Instagram I found this post of these words on the cost of integrity and speaking our truth. It is scary to speak out truth. I finally did this on something that I hold very dear to my heart. Yes, it is frightening, but it also opens up a space in your heart and mind to know that the words are out for those who need to hear them. It may not mean people will respond as you wish(or perhaps you have no expectation in which was my case), you might be understood or completely misunderstood, you could feel regret for putting the walls down or a release of weight from your shoulders and heart. Or you could feel all of this at the same time. But one thing I learned is that the extra space and energy of playing the ‘what if ‘game opens up space for feelings, thoughts, and ideas at deeper levels. No more wonder, but perhaps a liberation. A liberation to put yourself out there. A liberation that the words might just fall to the wayside and we will be okay because we have to understand we cannot control all the things. A liberation that we can be our true selves. And perhaps a peace that those that hear the words understand the energy and ideas being shared. So say the words you need to say. Try it. See how it feels. Even if it hurts.
Quote: This comes from the Tim Ferriss newsletter but it fits the four words above perfect and think it is a great one to thread the needle of connection between then. “The role of the artist is exactly the same as the role of the lover. If I love you, I have to make you conscious of the things you don’t see.”
― James BaldwinHit up these lyrics and remind yourself you don’t have to be afraid.