Each person we meet is our teacher and student

This is one of my favorite

foundation principles of iPEC.

In my previous job I used to work as a teacher in preschool. I taught 2 and 3 year old

toddlers. I was their teacher and they were my students. Of course, that is the way it was.

But I found out more and more that I learned a lot from them. I became their student. They taught me to live life to the fullest. Without being blocked by shame or thinking about what someone else might think. They taught me how to be in the moment. How to be present. How to just be. What an enrichment.

Just when I don't expect to become a student.

And at other times I unexpectedly become the teacher. For example, once I told an older man my story and he was so touched by this that he decided to organise his life differently. I didn't expect this at all.

I think this principle expresses equality in a beautiful way. Whether we are toddler or

adult. It doesn't matter what our social status is, where we come from or what

profession we practise. Anyone can be my teacher and anyone can be my student.

I approach contact with others much more openly and without attachment to the outcome. What can I learn from him or her and where can I add something?

It is about giving and receiving. About being a blessing to another and receptive to be blessed by the other.

Which person comes to your mind first who was unexpectedly your teacher, or your student?

How can you be more open to bless another or to be blessed by the other?