Those Who Can…

© Sinemaslow | Dreamstime.com – Teach Learn Crosswords

Have you heard the old saying, “those who can do and those who can’t, teach?

I have never found it to be true. Every teacher, instructor, professor, I have ever had have been great at doing what they teach. I believe the more you have experienced something, the more passionate and qualified you are to teach.

Last week I took a leap of faith and stepped way out of my comfort zone…or should I say my current comfort zone. I am hoping that what I have experienced will help me help others.

I have attended three different pain management clinics over the past 20 years. One of them I took twice because my father passed away during it and because I was doing well, they allowed me to start over with a different group. Another is a six-week program sponsored by one of our universities and lead by volunteers who either have chronic pain or are close to someone who does.

When I finished this program, about six years ago, I was asked if I wanted to go through leadership training. I thanked them and declined because I was not ready. I did not have a handle on my own management skills, so how could I effectively help others? My Dad needed 24/7 care, and I only had a care-worker one hour every morning. My health was taking a back seat to his, and it stayed that way until his passing two years later.

Now, six years later, I received an email out of the blue from a friend telling me that there was a pain management clinic happening in our area. She couldn’t go but wondered if it would interest me. I thanked her and said that I didn’t think I needed another program.

Then I thought about it – I looked up the URL, and it turned out to be the same program…and they are looking for volunteer leaders again. I thought and prayed about it and decided to fill out the application. What did I have to lose? Besides, the one coming up next week is probably full, and I will have to wait awhile, right?

God works in funny ways sometimes. He often lets you think you have the upper hand, and then He sneaks in and takes the lead. I sent in my application and that very afternoon got a notice that I will begin training March 7th. There was no phone interview or references called as stated on the application, just a note that the writer would try to get in contact this week.

So, here I am, sitting at the computer in some of the worst pain I have had for years, trying very hard to remember all of my management tools. In one week I am going to learn how to teach them to others. Yes, we are trained and even have a lesson plan to follow. However, we need to be able to relay personal experience.

So, about that old saying? People who teach must be able to do.

Lydia!