by Margaret Evans, Director of Lifespan Learning
I have heard that there are two different kinds of people when it comes to career choices. The first group chooses a career as a means to an end; they work to play. The other are people who choose a career they love; in this case, their work is their play. The first choice requires motivation; the second, inspiration. Finding inspiration can be harder for children. Parents (or adults of influence) chose activities for them in the hopes of leading them to inspiration and yet they often fall into motivation.
Sometimes the method that leads our children to their inspiration can be simple. Recently, Wayne has been playing chess with some of the young boys from the Junior Youth Group. He has noticed how their receptivity to him increased drastically. The children are excited to see him and anxious to talk to him about their inspirations after being joined in an activity they enjoy.
I find inspiration around me regularly, but I wonder how easy it is for children. I find inspiration in their joy spending time with Wayne. I find inspiration when I converse with them about the things of this world. I find inspiration when I share with them in the things they love.
This month, think of the children in your community or family.
• What activities, comments or actions might encourage them to seek and see inspiration in their surrounds?
• What changes or recommendations can you make to create an inspirational space for them at Neighbourhood?
• How can you partake in offering that inspiration?