MAC Week 2-1: Reading Post
The Art of Possibility is extremely interesting to read. It puts ideas in a new perspective.
Chapter One (Invented) begins with the story of two scouts going to Africa. Each comes back with a different perspective on what is going on in Africa. One states that the “situation hopeless…no one wears shoes” whereas the second states that “great opportunity…no one wears shoes.” A great way to look at this situation is the Winston Churchill saying: “A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty.” You can INVENT your own outlook…just depends on your frame of mind.
Chapter Two (Stepping Into A Universe Of Possibility) discusses the idea of new inventions are the “order of the day.” This brings to mind the thought that it is someone’s way of thinking that leads to an open mind. And open minds are what lead to new inventions. So, someone must instill upon themselves the belief and process of having an open mind. Once your mind is open, a “universe of possibility” will open up to you.
Chapter Three (Giving An A) discusses the thought process behind grades and attitudes toward achievement. It says that both attitude and achievement are on an individual basis. You should not compare yourself to THE NORM. An exercise that was given I utilize for my chorus all the time. Have your students write a letter dated for the end of the semester, and have them explain why they received the grade that they do. This allows them to think about who they WILL be, and how THEY will get there.
Chapter Four (Being A Contribution) is truly thought provoking. It instills the philosophy that we are a gift to the world. It suggests that we determine our day by day triumphs by the contributions we ourselves make upon the world around us. A great way to look at life. “Glass half full!”
So far this book has brought up a lot of ideas and philosophies I had forgotten about. I cannot wait to see what the rest of this book holds.
I leave you with this video of a Band Director explaining how an “A” is not enough.
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