A Journey of Transformation and Renewal

As the days shorten, our shadows lengthen, and the subtle shift to cooler nights signal the imminent transition of the seasons, I am reflecting on the lessons to be learned from Mother Earth’s cyclical ways of being and how to apply them in education. After all, we are part of the natural world and therefore embedded in a cycle of growth, rest, and renewal as well. 

Next year’s growth has been determined to some extent as a result of this year’s conditions. The seeds are developed, the mechanisms for dispersal are established, and the nutrients to nurture their initial growth are in place. In the Fall, everything rests until the external conditions are right to begin a new cycle of growth. 

We are continually engaged in these cycles of growth and renewal as human beings, and also as educators, charged with the responsibility of perpetuating knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary for new generations to develop. The wonder I have is where in the cycle of teaching and learning do we, like our Mother, rest? 

Here at the University of Calgary, ii’ taa’poh’to’p, a place to rest and rejuvenate during our journey (p. 2), invites us to think about the cycles of transformation and renewal in the natural world and see ourselves and our place within them. 

As we transition into a new academic year, I encourage you to reflect on these natural patterns and how they shape knowing, doing, being, and connecting in the world: Where are we at in the cycle? Have we considered when to rest and reflect? Do we all follow the patterns in the same ways and at the same time? What season is it on your journey and how can you prepare for the transformation and renewal to come?

ekosi