Lighting the Way

I call them “light bulb moments.”

If you’ve ever seen an old cartoon that features a character who gets a brilliant idea, you’ll understand what I’m talking about. The “light goes on,” and the character is that much better for it.

I’m fortunate enough in my life to experience these from time to time. Every time I see someone learn something, especially if it is something useful, I see the light bulb moment happen; this gives me a sense of personal satisfaction.

Sometimes the light bulb moments are simple. I was in the grocery store one day behind someone who had never used a self-checkout aisle before (or, at the very least, had not used one in quite a while). As this poor woman stood there with no clue what to do, I decided to ask if I could help her. “Where do I put my money?” she asked. I showed her the place where she could insert the $20 bill she was holding so tightly, and she then had her light bulb moment. She thanked me and went on her way.

(Of course, I had an ulterior motive in helping her, since I couldn’t ring up my purchases until she was finished, but we’ll ignore that.)

Other times, I see the light bulb moments when I am teaching students. Teaching is a very interesting art form because the student actually has to put in some effort (e.g., learn) in order for it to be successful. Otherwise, it is just me talking to myself for the class period. So, when a student actually puts the information I am spewing together with some independent thought, the light bulb goes on—smiles and happy expressions follow from both student and teacher.

Lately, the best light bulb moments have been coming from my children. When I see my two year old learn a new skill and put it into practice, it is an incredibly heart-warming experience.

Well, it is most of the time. Last week when he discovered how to disassemble my cell phone, it was not so much of a heart-warming experience—it was more of a heart-stopping moment, but I’ll digress.

My four year old has less of the light bulb moments than he used to, but he still gets them every now and then. However, his moments are accompanied by a strange look on his face—bordering on “evil genius” gestures from movies and television—so they tend to scare me a bit. But at least he is continuing to learn.

What was your latest light bulb moment? Did you have help in your discovery, or was it something that you taught yourself?

Inquiring minds want to know…

Finally, think about what you can do to give someone else a light bulb moment. I believe that the experience will be one that you will cherish, if only for a few short moments.

But, seriously, don’t teach my children anything destructive. That’s all I ask.