The Wisdom of Silence

Do you remember the last time you poured your heart out? Without any inhibitions...or any filters...or any concerns for what the rest of the world might think? Sort of like how we used to talk when we were kids... the innocence of blurting out anything and everything as if no one is listening to you but at the same time you have this strong belief that everyone is supporting you...

Well, this past Summer I had an amazing  opportunity to interact with elementary school kids for about 8 weeks as part of Science Camp at York University. The camp was filled with lessons, experiments, games, laughter, and new friendships. Most importantly, I got to learn some of the valuable lessons that I might have forgotten while growing up...

During the camp, there were moments when I played the role of a silent listener. Blending into the background so I can actively monitor them as a responsible adult...OK, maybe the previous sentences are a fancy way of saying I was eavesdropping ^.^ Let's just say listening to their fresh take on every topic has a way of putting what's important into perspective.

"Sharing is Caring"

"Teamwork is needed for survival"

"Is there a butt muscle? Yes, it's called the kidneys"

"Duct tape is made out of duck skin"

"Big Mac and fries are healthy because it has salt in it"

"Why is the blueprint not printed in blue colored paper?"

"Why does air need oxygen?"

So there you have it...just some curious thoughts and quotes from the kids. I wish I captured more of these moments...moments when I opened my eyes to kids' minds...moments when I played tag with a bunch of 8-11 year olds and ran out of breath within the first thirty seconds...moments when I interacted with kids who are (extremely) enthusiastic and passionate about what they are learning...moments when I saw the campers come early in the morning and sat quietly to read their books or play hangman or have energy to ask questions...moments when bursting into singing Avril Lavigne/Adele/anything on our playlist with my fellow camp instructors was considered as bonding time...and last but not least moments when I reminded myself how important it is to practice more of "talk less and listen more" policy...

P.S. I took this picture last year and I never had the chance to share it until this blog-post...maybe there is a connection between the leaves changing colors and kids growing up...OR maybe I am just using this opportunity to my advantage and posting the picture...

Reminiscing about camp days,
A. Ben