Читать книгу Becoming a Reflective Practitioner - Группа авторов - Страница 23

The above theories all stem from a rational Western cognitive tradition reflected in the words, ideas, and language used. Put another way, they all come from one direction or wind. My exploration of Buddhism and Native American lore gave me wider perspectives and different winds (Johns 2005). It is not enough to ‘know’ reflection. It is deeper than that – it is about developing mindfulness and wisdom, something beyond rational thinking that is not easily defined. Goldstein (2002, p. 89) notes:

Mindfulness is the quality of mind that notices what is present without judgment, without interference. It is like a mirror that clearly reflects what comes before it.

Thus mindfulness is a heightened state of awareness. It is being aware moment by moment of things and the world around us, of our body, our feelings and thoughts, and ourselves in relationship with others. Wheatley and Kellner‐Rogers (1996, p. 26) write:

The more present and aware we are as individuals and as organisations, the more choices we create. As awareness increases, we can engage with more possibilities. We are no longer held prisoner by habits, unexamined thoughts, or information we effuse to look at.

Miller offers a vivid description of being mindful of the world around him (1964, p. 27):

Nothing was too petty to escape my attention, seeing the everyday things in this new light I was transfixed. The moment you give close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnified world in itself.

Through paying attention to their experiences and reflection, practitioners naturally become more aware of themselves and their practice. Reflection is a way to connect with all things, gain respect and inner strength, and realise one’s vision as reflected in the idea of bimadisiwin. Jones and Jones (1996, p. 47) write:

Bimadisiwin is a conscious decision to become. It is time to think about what you want to be. The dance cannot be danced until you envision the dance, rehearse its movements and understand your part. It is demanding for every step needs an effort in becoming one with the vision. It takes discipline, hard work and time. It is freeing, for it frees the spirit. It releases you to become as you believe you must.

Such words stir the imagination. Bimadisiwin is reflection. It is a ritual dance of becoming.

 Listen to the drum!Believe in the vision of youPractice the visionBecome the vision