1- Specifications and Abstract

       This unlearning process was life-lifting. It coincided with an attempt at a relationship with one of my best friends, a trip to Cuba for the International Permaculture Conference/Convergence, a reforestation project in Haiti during a vegan, drug-free, caffeine-free Advanced PDC, and the meeting of a ghost.

       I am uncertain whether it is the Learning and Career Review or the said mix of events that put me through the blender of Unlearning. Either way, the past month has been full of unknotting the tangles of my soul and spirit. It was beautiful and beautifully challenging.

I unlearned or am in the process of unlearning—and have begun reconstructing my learning patterns—of the following:

-my habit of altering versions of honest sentiments. I discovered that I avoid transparency at my own expense to avoid evoking the pain of others. I intend to practice transparency and see the idealism that comes from realistic interactions.

-my teaching habits. I have always taught with a little example and a lot of imposition. I have learned to become a student amongst the students--it is not a one-way learning street, it's a cyclical relationship with ample give-and-take opportunities.

-my need to impress others in order to be loved and acknowledged—I find it difficult to give myself due credit and approval. I am learning that my energy is focused on attracting others, and I am successful to the point that I “lead them down the garden path,” deceiving friends and acquaintances.

I have written my story based on the 12 Permaculture principles outlined by David Holmgren. Each one describes where I learned the principle, a place I have successfully applied it, and areas upon which I could improve.