The Importance of Pursuing Passions
For many, the traditional Japanese art of paper folding can result in paper boats or cranes, but in the hands of scientist Dr. Robert Lang, the folding becomes mathematical, artistic, and inspirational. Last week, Trinity School students were treated to a special Trinity Together Time with Dr. Lang who talked about his passion for origami that began at the age of six. He wowed the audience with photographs of his artwork ranging from a scorpion to a rattlesnake to a violin player whose arm dons a movable bow! He was even called upon to devise a way to “fold” a telescope lens that could be transported in space.
Sixth Grader Florida acting as Head of School for the day spent additional time with Dr. Lang with a small group of students. She writes, “Dr. Lang offers advice for anyone wishing to realize their dreams. ‘Follow your passion and don’t worry how it will be judged by others. Doing your passion for fun will lead you to good places; they’ll always show up.’ Dr. Lang’s fascinating talent can teach us a lot about our lives. He told our group that when he was a teenager, he would sometimes not make any origami because he was afraid of what his friends might think. This is seen throughout our community today. But he also told us that whenever he did make something, his peers found it to be amazing. After that, he followed his talent and ended up where he is today. Kids need to understand that they shouldn’t hold back on their passions at any cost. They need to learn to love what they enjoy doing. If they can realize that, their passions can take them to good places.”
As I contemplated Lang’s accomplishments in art, science, and mathematics and the way in which his childhood passion became his life’s work, I am humbled that the children in our care have passions to tend. They have ideas that need exploration and time to develop. They deserve adults that take their “play” seriously. I am grateful that Trinity School is such a place.
April 21st, 2011 at 12:51 PM
Mary Ellen: You are SPOT-ON. Encouraging children to do what they love and help them define this as “Passion” creates a crucial transformation.
I have heard passion described this way: Your passion is something that when you start it in the morning… before you know it, the evening has arrived. It is what we get lost in by giving our all, heart, mind and soul.
Passions, I believe also evolve and change over time so it is important to understand that new passions can come from combining multiple interests. For me, music and writing have brought a new, deep and intense passion. The work I have done in this area has also introduced me easily to others with either writing or musical passions.
Maybe the universal passion is to help others discover and chase their passion.
Thank you for the wonderful message.
Bruce Pulver
November 9th, 2011 at 11:16 PM
[...] and be a synergist. From there, I am reminded of my visit and lunch last year with Robert Lang who showed Trinity students that he is so much more than just an origami artist. And then I read the comments on Melissa’s post from her current teacher, her former teacher, [...]