We are part of a hyperturbulent, fast-paced, disposable culture --
break-down furniture, break-down marriages, cross-country migrations, sound
bits, video clips, fast food, eat-and-run -- types of living and interactions
that lead to an incessant, pervasive need for instant gratification. In
this state our cultural milieu does not readily lend itself to either fostering
reflective action, or to the natural development of tenacity in our children.
And yet we know from numerous investigations into the lives of creative
individuals that reflective action is necessary for the incubation periods
so crucial to true creative production. We also know that persistence and
tenacity are essential elements that distinguish highly creative people
from people with just another good idea.
In order to be recognized, the processes which form creation demand
that unique ideas find inviting homes. Ideas must seek development, production,
refinement before they reach fruition and manifestation and for others
to see their beauty or their worth. This process takes time and energy
and tenacity as creators become consumed with the tasks of taking ideas
and making them either visible, audible or usable.
Therefore, if we say that we value creativity and its many processes
and products, we must ultimately be willing to teach the art of reflective
behavior and foster persistence in our young. However, developing these
attributes in children takes the gift of time, and our children must be
given that gift if they are ever to become truly creative.
Children need time to discover, to explore, to experiment, to learn
from mistakes, to adjust and realign their ideas, time to make corrections,
time to dream, and to wonder "what if?" These are lifetime skills
far beyond the measurement of common academic standards, well into and
beyond our tomorrows.
