Before the retreat I was asked to teach a stained glass star class. I planned ahead by packing my bin with tools, glass, star kits and equipment. I was ready and felt prepared. After all, I had done this numerous times in the past.
When the time came to teach I had the table set with everything we would need. The students cut and foiled their pieces. We were having a great time. Then it was time to solder so I reached into my bin for the roll of solder. Panic set in as I realized I had forgotten to pack the solder. The students conversed in anticipation of the next step as I began to sweat bullets. The feelings going through me in that short minute were : embarrassment, failure, panic, inadequacy, disappointment in myself, questioning my abilities as a teacher, discomfort, frozen limbs, fear, lack of control of the situation, uncertainty, difficulty swallowing and the possibility of a few tears. Yes, all of that.
I took a deep breath, turned to my class with a fake smile and hoped I wouldn't be flogged by angry stained glass students. Fortunately they expressed: sympathy, understanding, acceptance, forgiveness and willingness to let me make it up to them. Whew. I apologized and was left standing there in my vulnerability. I offered another class in my studio for no extra charge to finish their project. They agreed.
Here's the lesson. I explained the situation and was open to their response. They allowed the solution to happen and showed compassion. It doesn't always end up so well but this time, things worked out. Courage comes when we swallow our pride and do the hard thing. There was no one to blame but myself but I didn't fall apart. These lovely ladies are willing to give me another chance. The other lesson is to get a back-up check on my packing before another mobile class.
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