Yep, I’m biased: I am certain that teaching is spiritual. Not because teachers need to be religious but because the tasks of teaching human beings require heart-based skills: faith, care, love, “unconditional positive regard for difference” — skills that do not necessarily come naturally all the time and therefore demand care and attention themselves.
In this episode, I explore this question and others with Mark Longhurst, an inspiring pastor, writer, and publications manager for Richard Rohr’s Center for Action and Contemplation. Together, we explore how to view teaching (and parenting) not just as a task list, but as a spiritual practice.
Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.
We discuss:
Flowing with chaos: How to stay grounded when the classroom (or home) feels out of control.
The “holy ordinary”: Why the most mundane moments hold the most spiritual weight.
Detachment for connection: The paradox of detaching from our “teacher identity” to develop healthy attachment with students.
Somatic teaching: The importance of bringing a “settled body” into the classroom.
Sacred spaces: The benefits, and perils, of viewing your classroom as holy ground.
External Links
the holy ordinary by Mark Longhurst (Substack)
The Holy Ordinary: A Way to God (Book)
My Grandmother’s Hands: Racialized Trauma and the Pathway to Mending Our Hearts and Bodies by Resmaa Menakem
Fierce Love: A Bold Path to Ferocious Courage and Rule-Breaking Kindness that Can Heal the World by Dr. Jacqui Lewis
Connect & Share
Got a story to share? Where are you on your spiritual journey? How do you notice and celebrate the holy ordinary in your everyday life? How do you make your classroom a sacred space? Leave us a message! 413.239.4158. This is an underappreciated perspective on teaching (and living). We’d love to share your wisdom!
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Credits
Founder and Host: Betsy Burris
Co-Host: Joe Johnson
Producer: Jullian Androkae of PodVision
Audience Development: Andreea Coscai of PodVision
Music: Tom Burris/Jabbering Trout
