Yes! It is “Small Talk”. They were less than seven years of age. Class one students of mine. Indeed they were having a talk.
The joy and meaning of teaching are revealed during unguarded moments. When you least expect it! Wise words uttered by children that are way beyond their young years. Crystallized in simple words that carry the wisdom of an old man. Thoughts that otherwise could slip the intellectual and rational man is caught by the child. The best lesson is one that is answers the immediate situation – to respond to a spontaneous event.
It was Midday. One lazy and hot day in August, my dear class one boys were gathered in front of my table, they were having an Ontological argument, casually. I was having my Korean food, a bit spicy kimchi and Kimbap. It was my time to unwind as I listened to their conversation. A back seat observer, I followed through the discussion as each boy expressed his view about God. It was both interesting and fascinating considering the expanse of the topic. They were spontaneous and clear. I did not interfere but to listen. The philosophical argument on the existence of God simply amuses me. An ontological argument about the state of being or existing. The boys in my class are charming and sweet and carried a strong sense of self that sooner they were at edge. Everyone has a point to advance and a belief to defend. It was my time to join the conversation and told them a story.
It doesn’t matter how I told the story but it contained the message for each child dressed in images. Personified as princes and princess, each child captures the essence. It appeals easier to the soul life of the child. The Ego has not yet incarnated fully into “ I ”. But children who are born with a strong Ego sense tend to be called to achieve bigger things or change something of the world. They need all the love to accomplish their task.
In every conversation, children learn to listen first and wait for the other child to finish his piece. Listening and not interpret what is stated. Conversation is a two way process. Each child has a piece to tell, respect for what was said is learned. We may not always find agreement still, openness to any discussion is necessary. It is not always about proving who is right, who is better, or who is good. It is also learning how to see others for what they are. As they learn to wait for their turn they also develop patience, an appreciation for uniqueness and learn how to collaborate with diversity. They learn equanimity during conversation. Not monopolizing, giving space for other children to come in. Participation and interaction are skills learned over time.
Once a child has been in my class, I always refer to him or her as “one my children” even if they have moved to the next grade level or school; however with the exception of course, of my once college students.
Children say the smartest simple thing in the world. As teachers, we learn from their simplicity.
____________________________________________________
MARIA LOURDES DE VERA, RN is an artist and an award-winning author