Some days it hardly seems like a good deal. Why do we spend all four years with these students and just when they “get it” they leave? What sense does that make? It seems like we just got this, “downstage vs. upstage” problem solved and you are off to bloom in someone ELSE’S garden. I feel like I’ve been a gardener who was there with the dirt and manure tossing seeds in the murk – with daily, and I mean daily, visits to fertilize, weed and shelter from gophers – and then just as the plant begins to sprout we call in the next gardener and say, “Here, take all of this. I have convinced this seed that it is indeed a plant and now I would so appreciate you taking all the credit for the peddles as it flowers somewhere else.” Sucky business plan if you ask me.
Today was a simply brilliant day in both my Directing and Company classes. Seniorites was met and conquered. Many of my actors turned in the best day of their four years. I was one proud “gardner”. Secretly, I was afraid that I had nothing to do with this success but selfishly I wanted to take the credit. I know, I know the work and growth came from them. I was less a teacher to them and more of a witness to their artistic maturation. I am not sure that they needed me, but I take pride in knowing that I didn’t stand in the way of their growth. Do no harm – but secretly take the credit. That’s my new motto!
One comment on “Good Now Gone”
This reminds me a bit of when people foster rescue animals, but end up adopting them out to others.
They’ve played their most perfect role. Perhaps it wouldn’t have been as magical if they hung on to each of the animals they saved. Things would get crowded and the magic might disappear.
They gave new life to a being – and then stepped aside to allow the next individual(s) to play their roles.
You play a valuable part in these student’s lives. Having those 4 years may be the best way to play that role just perfectly.
Tough to let go, I’m sure. But as in life, the only thing that’s guaranteed is change.