In most areas of my life, I learn and grow when I accurately identify where to start.

I find that I need to start at a place where I can begin to comprehend the information.  There might be endless material that I can choose from, but if I choose something too technical or too simple, I might lose interest.

One of the most beneficial tools I’ve used for myself and when with others is to attempt to assess what we have and what we hope to gain.  Once we understand where we’re starting with each topic, person, or assignment, then we can apply the appropriate direction and encouragement.

If we misjudge our starting point, we often get discouraged, compare ourselves to others, and often give up.  The most vivid example of this for me is comprehending the Bible.  

My faith does not waver, but I was lacking in knowledge of the Bible.  Not because I didn’t feel it was important, but because every time I started, I failed.  Most of the time falling asleep over unfamiliar words.

Finally, I found an outlet that provided both an accurate reading and an explanation with exposure to various thoughts regarding interpretation.  This particular daily reading of the Bible met me where I was and provided me a platform to grow.  I wasn’t stumbling over words; it was read for me.

Once we are able to grow, other avenues open up to us and things that we once thought unlikely become possible.  I don’t often write about my kids, but I think this example offers some insight into how meeting someone where they’re at provides an opportunity to allow things to bloom.

In high school, my daughter, who was terrified of public speaking, decided to enroll in a speech class.  I was incredibly surprised and supportive, yet privately rather concerned for her challenge ahead.  I knew her teacher was kind and supportive, but I did not know her teaching style.  My daughter puts pressure on herself to do well, but this was not her strength. 

I remember thinking the day of her first speech, this is it: either she is humiliated in front of her peers, or her teacher will see her struggle to speak and meet her with grace.  The teacher accepted her flaws, and she was able to work herself up to an acceptable, and even an average, speaker.  Instead of expecting more than the students had to offer at that moment, the teacher gave them encouragement.

My daughter immediately had group and independent presentations at college, and instead of floundering, she soared.  She had to present her undergraduate thesis to the department.  As I listened to her practice, I was amazed by her control and delivery of the presentation.

Her major professor commented on how professional she presented, how she was able to relate complicated material to outside members in a very manageable, meaningful way that was understandable, and how her overall demeanor as she presented was very seasoned. 

I believe the turning point for her success was her high school teacher understanding the needs of each student.  She encouraged the students to be something they may not have envisioned in the past. 

Once we understand the importance of being familiar with our starting point, it’s much easier to figure out how we can grow. 

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