In this episode, Kathy Buckworth & Evelyn Brindle had the pleasure of chatting with the remarkable Christine Runstedtler, a resident of The Village of Winston Park in Kitchener. Christine shared her incredible travel experiences and insights from her long career as a teacher. Here are three key takeaways:
The Importance of Arts in Education: Christine passionately discussed the vital role that arts play in enriching our lives and education. She highlighted the need to revive arts programs in schools, emphasizing that exposure to music, theater, and visual arts fosters creativity and critical thinking in students. As she pointed out, the arts are not just an extracurricular activity; they are essential for a well-rounded education that prepares our youth for the future.
Travel as a Learning Experience: One of the most inspiring aspects of Christine's story is how her travels have shaped her perspective and teaching methods. She shared fascinating anecdotes from her trips to places like Indonesia and China, illustrating how these experiences allowed her to bring real-world context into the classroom. Travel, as Christine noted, is not just about seeing new places; it's about gaining insights and understanding different cultures, which can profoundly impact both personal growth and education.
The Value of Sharing Wisdom: Throughout the conversation, Christine expressed her humility about sharing her experiences and knowledge. However, her stories are a testament to the wealth of wisdom that our elders possess. The Green Bench symbolizes a space for dialogue and connection, reminding us that sharing our stories can bridge generational gaps and foster understanding. Christine's insights serve as a reminder that we all have valuable experiences to share, and it's essential to create opportunities for these conversations.
We invite you all to listen to this enlightening episode and reflect on the importance of arts, travel, and the wisdom of our elders. Let's continue to celebrate and honor the experiences that shape us!
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The Green Bench is a symbol of elder wisdom. Physically or virtually, the bench invites us all to sit alongside a senior, share a conversation, or give and offer advice.
It challenges the stigma seniors face; the ageism still so prevalent in society. It reminds us of the wealth of wisdom our elders offer and in doing so, helps restore them to a place of reverence.
”The greatest untapped resource in Canada, if not the world, is the collective wisdom of our elders.” -Ron Schlegel
