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Paulo Coelho, in his book "El Alquimista" (The Alchemist) says that when "you want something, there is universal conspiracy to help you get it." Many people, however, don't just sit and wait for things to happen. They make things happen. And this is one of the most remarkable traits of Judith Gordon. Regardless whether she is cooking, practicing the piano, learning new yoga movements or a new language, or teaching, Judith's energy makes things happen. I have witnessed this in my interactions with her as my boss, trainer, translations editor and professor. But there is another trait of Judith not everybody knows, and I saw it when I co-taught an ESP class with her at a manufacturing company in Champaign. There, Judy is known as "la maestra," a person who is willing to teach a class at 6 am (or earlier) ... in the winter!!! if that's what it takes for students to be able to take the class. Once she closes the classroom door, Judy becomes a sweet, patient (yet energetic) instructor, who knows how details can make the difference between another long day of work or a remarkable learning experience. From my position of co-teacher/trainee/assistant, I learned how Judy deals with all sorts of students: some who could barely read in their first language, some others who were too tired after working long shifts, those who were extremely motivated at age 60 ... and even rebellious teenagers... and she was the only one who could control and motivate them! If you ask me her secret, I guess it is ...... common sense, lots of common sense (plus obviously hard work and sensibility). As a translations editor, Judith is a perfectionist... probably the toughest editor I have had (and will ever have). As a teacher, however, the patient person takes over, showing how common sense and a smile can make a difference. Probably those of you who are not teachers will think this is really
cheesy, but those of us who are teachers understand how important motivation
is in the learning process. And a good handshake with the students at
the end of the class period-one of Judy's trademarks-is a good example
of that. |