pic: Schreiber Take on West Coast Drive

[JaneYoung]

Originally Posted by ICanCountTo19

So you admit it is stupid

I'm not a fan of the word, stupid. It is a heavy word that has been lobbed at many young people's heads over time and I've been around to see the resulting effect, beginning in an elementary math class. I'll never forget the look on my classmate's face when our teacher used it on him, followed by a ruler to the palms.

This is a good thread. The topic is excellent and it is wonderful to listen in and find nuggets of wisdom in the posts. Some of the responses have triggered another topic and that is regarding the use of sarcasm when mentoring. I've found that those who use it, defend and support it. I've also found that sarcasm can create misunderstandings and defensive stances. If that is the goal of the mentor, then I ask why? If the use of sarcasm as a mentoring tool opens up thought processes and encourages development in the area of thinking and using common sense, then the mentor who wields the tool is wise and careful with its use.

One of the skills that I do appreciate is the use of humor as a mentoring tool. It, too, can be applied in a heavy-handed manner that shuts down communication or, it can be applied with a deftness and skill that leaves an impression much like an, 'aha, why didn't I think of that', moment.

Regarding the word, stupid. I like the word, awareness. Lack of awareness and understanding moving towards becoming more aware and working towards a deeper understanding. This thread is creating that opportunity.

Jane