So of late I've been really thinking about this whole world of mentorship. It's all around me and I'm finally realizing it! For instance, I've been under the 'auspices' of my mentor teacher (of whom i will discuss at length soon) and being fortunate enough to be an Emerging Global Leaders Program mentor to 49 super gifted high-schoolers.
It's funny, because I've been on the both ends of this gamble. Recently I've mentally made up my mind that my 'mentor' teacher I worked under all year for my education practicum was such a cocky brat!!! Like really! Essentially, she used me, a fresh, young, talented, creative, modern teacher to compare herself to. She was quick to naively point out my flaws ALL the time. Ironically, my best day at that school was when she was absent! And let me say that she went on an excursion without inviting me!Don't get me wrong eh! I did learn a lot from her, unfortunately though what not to become! My tyranny ends on Friday when I mark the last of the mohican scripts she insisted that i finish despite the fact that my obligation had ended a week prior!
On the happy side of the cookie though, I've had the absolute pleasure of mentoring a great 17 year old, a participant from the EGLP High school edition. I really have an interest in him simply because I simply have a genuine interest in continuing my guidance outside fo the three day confines of the conference dates. He's awesome PS. A bit of an anomly I guess! At first glance on seeing him, you think skater dude, West 49 esque, flamboyant supporter of the Jays as seen by his ritualistic wearing of the cap, and avid music follower known due to his consecrated hours of music listening via iPod or Blackberry. As mouthed by him, he's one of the two white guys in all his graduating class which sadly makes him a minority in his infamous high school. He revealed to me his spark and for some reason I just want to be one of those persons in which he could provide kudos for having helped him through these formative years at his graduation party. :)
But in mentoring my buddy, he really got me thinking about what it really means to be a mentor and the unimaginable power that the mentor wields. Provided that your influence over the mentee is soo strong, one has to really be responsible with the power that can be yielded.
My epiphany is that in being a mentor, one has to constantly examine oneself to not say one thing to the mentee and do completely opposite in private. It's as I've explained to my friend EVE, that a leader should have no problems in revealing to the public his personal life and not being embarrassed or ashamed to do so.
L'homme qui s'excuse, s'accuse !
My learning continues...
Three things.
ReplyDelete1. I got a shout out! :) Made my DAY.
B. You are an excellent writer B, so articulate and engaging. This blog was a GREAT idea!
Third. YESSSS! Mentorship is sooo important, not only in one's life, but also to build into someone else's life. Its a wonderful privilage. Good on you for recognizing that :)