In Existentialism, the major challenge for one to become an effective teacher is staying true to one's self.
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We are all Unique
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Existentialism is defined as a philosophical movement which emphasizes on individual existence, freedom and choice. There are several philosophical positions all related to existential philosophy but the main identifiable common proposition, is that existence precedes essence (source: www.thecry.com)
There is a need for us to exist first before we can find our meaning and purpose in life. There is also a call for us to be true to ourselves and value our uniqueness. Thus, the need to be able to follow our hearts, our passion, our innermost desires as they are the ones that will lead us towards the truth and towards happiness.
An existentialist teacher is faced with arguably the most taxing of all tasks- and that is to promote and live out our own uniqueness. In a world that is encompassed by a society that compels us to be part of the group in order to belong, it is very difficult to simply make a stand and be different than the rest. Yet, the existentialist teacher has to ensure that he or she will not veer away from this so that he/she can truly be effective.
Just imagine the simple realities of students being groomed to be this and that by their parents, relatives or at times, even their teachers. It is true that no matter how painful it may be for some, they would rather follow so as not to "disappoint" or "fail to live up to expectations". Sad, but very true. As a teacher, and if I were to be an existentialist at that, Who am I to oppose the dreams and ambitions of the parents of a certain student who only wants what will be (the so- called) best for their child? What if following the parents is what will really ensure the child of a better future.
There is always a dilemma between what is practical and what is desired. Sometimes, the things that we feel will make us happy do not necessarily comply with what is practical. If a boy wants to be a musician or a singer because he is good at it and he wants to give up his education to pursue this dream of his, would you, as a teacher, support him and encourage him to follow his heart? Good for him if he becomes famous and rich but what if he does not? What now?
As a teacher, there is nothing wrong in encouraging kids to pursue their dreams. It is good to support them all the way and help them find the things that they are passionate about. In fact, who knows, they may really succeed in it and achieve greatness in those fields. Yet, it would also be helpful to give them options that they can also consider. I think the real essence of existing does not come from merely supporting and agreeing. Rather, it requires some balancing between what makes sense from what really doesn't. Even the greatest basketball player ever, Michael Jeffrey Jordan, eventually came to realize way back in 1995 that he wasn't as good in baseball as he was in basketball. And that, what he had in basketball was a special gift that he could share to the whole world. Just imagine, if Ateneo phenoms like Kiefer Ravena and Alyssa Valdez were deprived from pursuing basketball and volleyball, then they will not be who they are now. They became who they are now because they were blessed enough to have been given a chance to hone their gifts and pursue their dreams. And this is exactly where the existentialist teacher should come in. He/ she should always aim to keep the dreams of his/her students alive, no matter how bleak they may be. These teachers should continue encouraging and making their students believe that they can. Sometimes, all a person needs is for someone to believe in him or her, and it is already more than enough. And yes, the effective existentialist teacher can definitely be this person.
To sum it all up, check out this song entitled Beautiful by the great Christina Aguilera, as it embodies what is means to be unique, dream- driven and truly beautiful.
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