Teaching, and the lack thereof.

[madbaker]

I haven't taught anything at an SCA Collegium or A&S for a while. Except for Cooks' Collegium, at which I have taught for the last four years. I'm discounting that because it's a specialty audience. I just haven't been inspired.

Several reasons, I would guess. Work has taken a lot of time/effort/brainpower. The exchequer job I'm doing, such as it is, takes some - and next year's likely handover will eat my life for certain.

I feel vaguely guilty about this, like I am slacking on Laurel responsibilities. Then I feel guilty about feeling guilty about it. Yes, I walk around with cured meats and do a bit of demo'ing that way. But it's not quite the same as actively teaching people.

I don't know. Maybe I need a kick in the butt to restart creative juices. Maybe I don't and this is a pause that refreshes. Maybe I'm too neurotic for my own good.

Maybe.

Comments

[kareina.livejournal.com]

I don't remember the last time I taught at an event...

Not a laurel, but. . .

[allison-is.livejournal.com]

I have to say that even if I were (am I "allowed"to say that? OH WHELL!) I will always put "real life" over the SCA. Need to spend a weekend cleaning the house instead of at an event? Need to put my feet up and read a book? Doing that instead. Yes, being a peer is a job but taking care of yourself is a job too.

I think that if you don't have the desire to teach/be creative and try to do that anyway, it can come off as forced and it will absolutely not be fun for anyone.

[goldenstag.livejournal.com]

Go ahead, be neurotic for a bit ... but really, don't sweat it. Sometimes you just need a breather.

[viking-food-guy.livejournal.com]

I'm finding myself in a similar slump. I've taught a bit, but it's been pretty lackluster, really. I kinda feel like it's been done. I'm hoping to start some new projects in the next year or two, and maybe going in a new direction will kick start things again.

In a similar vein, public demos have lost all attraction for me. It used to be fun, and now it's just not. It was really bothering me for a while, but I've recently just let it go. If it doesn't bring you joy, it's not worth it.

[jillwheezul.livejournal.com]

Why not put some of that specialty knowledge down in writing? You've got a great start in gathering historical information for chacuterie. Maybe a Complete Anachronist? Or self publish via Amazon? That way you can always be teaching to those interested in your subject. I am probably writing this because misery loves it some company :)

[shadowdryad.livejournal.com]

This is a great suggestion.

FWIW, you've taught me a lot. Maybe you're more in a one-on-one mentoring / inspiring through nerdery phase?