May 28 2015

The noblest profession

I read an article about the differences in yoga between India and America. In the article I came across how the author saw differences in the teachers and students who practice from both countries.

“In India, the ancient concept of Guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple traditions) is a strong part of the culture, both in and outside of yoga. The teacher is revered and respected and his or her word is absolute. A teacher draws you from ignorance to light. A student doesn’t behave casually or talk back in the presence of the teacher. A student serves the teacher out of respect and gratitude. There is a certain way to sit, talk and interact with someone respected or elder to us. In classes I attended here, I’ve seen a far more casual dynamic. Students interact informally with the teacher, some never acknowledge the teacher, some do their own sequence in a group class and some even talk back to the teacher.
In India we believe that teaching is the noblest profession. When someone passes their knowledge to you, it is an honor.”

I was struck by the comments, not simply as they relate to yoga, but as to the culture of respect and honor that teachers are shown in India and how different it is here. I have been discussing the teaching profession with a few people of late and was moved by the notion that we have a long way to go in how we approach those we learn from.

Whether they be a teacher, a boss, a peer, an elder, or a friend.

I am honored every day by those I learn from.

How can we as a culture change the way we approach learning? Instead of only focusing on the student, perhaps it’s time we begin with how we approach the teacher.