Don’t Wait to Be Asked

Children learn at home whether or not they are a bother. As one of 6 children in an abusive and neglectful home, it was safer not to be seen or heard. I was the "mouse" in the family and terrified of my own shadow. Although I have worked hard all of my life and made good grades, when I did rotations I got "not interested" comments because I was so shy. I would just go home and look up the answers if I had questions. This always surprised me because I loved learning and admired most of my teachers. Although I have learned to interact with my patients, it is much harder to participate in a group especially when I feel ignorant. I really appreciate rabbis/teachers who help me know and meet their expectations whether it is to ask questions or not. Reply

I am the student who did not ask. I am asking now: My faith in HaShem was shaken and then faded away until almost nothing was left. I am looking for a way to return but find it very hard to let go of doubt. I know that HaShem is above and beyond all existence because He created everything. Considering how big the Universe is, where is He, and how can I be certain that HaShem’s intentions for me are good? Reply

I don't bother you because I do not know you expect or ask it. Reply

A Torah student who cares about his teacher must be happy to be quiet if his rabbi needs time to rest or recharge. Can G-d love one who exhausts his teacher without a thought? It seems a burdensome chore to be a great teacher...or perhaps the chore is having a tiresome student. Reply

Don't wait to be asked I have taught and lectured for many years. In that time I have come across many students. As you say, some ask, some don't. I have always encouraged discussion in my classes. Here again, some students partake in the discussion and some don't. When one gets to know ones students I feel that it is up to the teacher to gently bring the non participating students "out of themselves" until they actually want to take part in discussions and/or want to come to me and discuss things. In this way I have seen many "very quiet" students begin taking part in class - and eventually these students feel very good about partaking. So yes, I agree 100% that it is the duty of a teacher to know his/her students and in this way get them to willingly take an active role in class. I have seen some amazing changes in students when, with understanding and effort, the teacher initiates this whole process. I remember very well how some of my teachers lacked the understanding and effort to do this. Reply

frequently true... sometimes questions, as in Torah, answer themselves sooner or later....sometimes a student takes time to formulate questions...it is good to communicate! Reply

Don't wait to be asked Yes, a good teacher has student participation. This is part of the process of transferring knowledge. Reply

Teacher. Baruch Ha-Shem.
You finally got one right, Reb. Reply