KIM'S TUTORIAL

This week’s group engaged the class in an activity which I found to be quite interesting. We were all asked to remain completely silent as we entered the class, and we were told to walk around in any direction way or direction we pleased, to become comfortable and with the environment. During this time we really got familiar and connected with the classroom itself. Next, when told, we had to stop and partner up with whomever our eyes met. Facing our partner in silence, we either closed our eyes or looked at our partner, and for the next minute or so we just felt their presence and were indulged in the moment. We then continued to walk and again were asked to partner up, face our partners in silence, but this time maintaining eye contact. After doing this, again we had to walk and when told to stop, find a partner through eye contact. This time we could either  open or close our eyes, and we held up our hands feeling each others presence. We then held hands for a few seconds and then just felt each other’s presence with our hands up.

The activity was initially very awkward, for obvious reason, but once we all realized that the other person is feeling the same we decided to get over that awkward feeling and just embrace the moment. This activity really made us more comfortable and understanding of each other because just by looking into a person’s eyes and feeling their presence, you really connect with them. During this activity we experienced something we don’t usually get to in our everyday encounters with people. It was relevant to the readings the groups discussed because through this activity, we experienced how voice can be given to the silent, and how to nurture a climate of trust.  The activity made everyone feel equal, and by intermingling with the class the group itself became our equals. They destroyed the division that would make them the presenters and us the listeners, and instead they were able to present while being a part of our experience as well.

The group’s snack was a few different dishes, all derived from pumpkin. Each member in the group could relate to the pumpkin and so they each created a different dish that was made from it. Each dish, might I add, was indeed very good. Before eating, the group sat us all down in a circle and together we took a moment to think about where the pumpkin and the dish itself had come; and to whom and what we are thankful to, for it.