My passion is people- and seeing them grow. As a parent I've had the privilege to influence a few. As an adult educator, coach and facilitator I have the opportunity to contribute to their growth on a daily basis. Ideally, I like dealing heart to heart without letting intellect get in the way. However, I am ever mindful that such a privilege carries a heavy responsibility.

This got me thinking about the characteristics of a good teacher - a role that is somewhat misleading in that I believe that our role is not so much to teach as to facilitate learning.

Notwithstanding, I like to think that someone in this pivotal role is someone who...

• bestows power on others, rather than employing it themselves;
• alerts one to options and opportunities, without imposing them on you;
• provides no answers; rather, suggests the essential questions, then offers guidance in how to answer them;
• makes you feel you have truly grown - in awareness, value and in self esteem;
• instills a love of learning and, since learning is growing and growth is life, ultimately gives the gift of life.

These are some of the essential characteristics on which I choose to evaluate my effectiveness - and responsibility. Might they also serve you?