"Without freedom it is impossible for personality to develop fully. Freedom is the key to the entire process, and the first step comes when the when the individual is capable of acting without help from others and becomes aware of himself as an autonomous being." Maria Montessori, Education and Peace Maria Montessori's concept of freedom and individuality in the child was revolutionary. She challenged the traditional educational system, which forced the children into conformity, and instead suggested that the child be allowed the freedom of expression, and that individuality and uniqueness be encouraged, rather than punished. Instilling this philosophy of acceptance and encouraging freedom in the young child allows them to develop their own personalities, their own individualities. Children who grow up this way become self-confident adults, who know themselves and can appreciate others, and all their individual differences. The world needs more people who think like she does. Societal pressure to confirm exists all around us. It is painful, harmful, and, quite frankly, abusive. Each person exists and is valuable precisely because of their uniqueness. Montessori saw that. But it seems that society has forgotten. I shared recently that even I have been criticized for my "authenticity" here on this blog, and on my other social media sites. This is society pressuring me to conform, to "be like everyone else." I am not like everyone else. You are not like everyone else. If we were all the same, life would be very boring. (Hmm...ever wonder why so many children are bored at school?) I'm studying to be a Montessori guide, and I believe in the Montessori principles. As such, I cannot be silent on this issue. Be yourself. Be unique. Be authentic. Be unapologetically YOU. And please, please, please, let others be themselves too. For this is how we will change the world. “We then become witnesses to the development of the human soul; the emergence of the New Man, who will no longer be the victim of events but, thanks to his clarity of vision, will become able to direct and to mould the future of mankind.” The Absorbent Mind
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(Greta) RoseA 20-something trying to find what it means to be me! Archives
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