I’ve had this as a blog post before, but as I said then – I think it’s important for teachers to revisit. If you’re a teacher reading this blog, your turn.
I teach yoga because I’m still in love with the power of yoga to change lives. I see it happen every fucking day. I feel it happen every day in my own life. There’s the obvious power on the mat, when we suddenly realize our own ability and take strides toward a pose that had previously intimidated. I have moments off the mat when I’m reminded my breath, my strength, my power, and my worth all start with “my.”
I teach because I’m a student. I want to learn. From my teachers. From my students. From my friends. I take every interaction in and process it because I’ve got a hunch – and pretty much always right – that there’s a nugget of wisdom in there. And I want that wisdom.
But most importantly, I teach for my students. They are the absolute ultimate reason I get up in the front of the room Their commitment to being the best versions of themselves on the mat is inspiring; it’s humbling; it challenges me to be better. Not because I want it. But because they deserve it.
I got a gift of journals from a student. As a “bad yogi,” I literally waited until today to open. Not realizing there was a card inside. I told you, bad yogi. Quite frankly, her (BB) card to me reminded me why I teach – connection. I see her weekly. More than once most weeks. And every time I am interested in her life; she (I hope) is interested in mine. But we see each other. We don’t look away. And we support each other for what may lie ahead.
I teach yoga. It’s my passion. It’s my calling. The universe has made it clear my direction. I teach yoga because every day I want to become a better version of myself. And I need someone to hold my hand so I won’t drift away.