Comments for Humans Being http://werhumansbeing.com Fri, 13 May 2011 15:31:40 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 hourly 1 Comment on Go Ahead- Change your mind by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/05/12/go-ahead-change-your-mind/comment-page-1/#comment-10102 admin Fri, 13 May 2011 15:31:40 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=638#comment-10102 So funny, Liz! I thought of you as I re-read the last bit of this after writing it. Maybe that last part was for you! I find your family's courage to support your son's independence and everyone's personal journey inspiring. So exciting that he's decided to join you! <3 So funny, Liz! I thought of you as I re-read the last bit of this after writing it. Maybe that last part was for you!

I find your family’s courage to support your son’s independence and everyone’s personal journey inspiring. So exciting that he’s decided to join you! <3

]]> Comment on Go Ahead- Change your mind by Elizabeth Ashley http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/05/12/go-ahead-change-your-mind/comment-page-1/#comment-10079 Elizabeth Ashley Fri, 13 May 2011 05:50:19 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=638#comment-10079 We gave our oldest son (13) a choice. He chose to stay behind and continue living the suburban life when we chose to travel full time. This was 9 months ago. Since making this choice he has had an opportunity to spend time with us on the road during his school vacations and get a feel for what this huge transition is actually like. 9 months later he has chosen, on his own accord, to join us full time. He is fully embracing the new adventure. I do not think he would have come to this understanding had we forced him to do this 9 months ago. He would not have been in the mindset to embrace anything new. To allow him to stay behind was a huge compromise on many levels nonetheless, a necessary one. I think he appreciates being considered and allowed to have his experience on his terms. He knows he matters. He knows he is valued and his needs are important. And a huge plus in it all- he knows there is more to life and that anything is possible. Freedom. We gave our oldest son (13) a choice. He chose to stay behind and continue living the suburban life when we chose to travel full time. This was 9 months ago. Since making this choice he has had an opportunity to spend time with us on the road during his school vacations and get a feel for what this huge transition is actually like. 9 months later he has chosen, on his own accord, to join us full time. He is fully embracing the new adventure. I do not think he would have come to this understanding had we forced him to do this 9 months ago. He would not have been in the mindset to embrace anything new. To allow him to stay behind was a huge compromise on many levels nonetheless, a necessary one. I think he appreciates being considered and allowed to have his experience on his terms. He knows he matters. He knows he is valued and his needs are important. And a huge plus in it all- he knows there is more to life and that anything is possible. Freedom.

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by TT http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9601 TT Mon, 02 May 2011 02:58:26 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9601 altho' i agree w/not hitting, i will say this: I was spanked/hit mostly by my dad (I don't remember it happening more than 1x/month) and I remember thinking as a child that my dad hitting me when he was angry was better than my mom's guilt trips, manipulation, love withdrawal and conditional love...i.e., emotional abuse. With my dad, I knew he was angry and him hitting me was because HE was angry. with my mom, I thought something was wrong with me and that I was unlovable. So, while I think hitting/spanking is unacceptable, if someone stops hitting and just substitutes that for manipulation or emotional abuse instead of actually becoming a better parent, that may not do much for the kid. However, there are too many horror stories out there still about parents who beat their kids unconscious or until they're dead or even just hurt...those kids just need new homes and new parents. altho’ i agree w/not hitting, i will say this: I was spanked/hit mostly by my dad (I don’t remember it happening more than 1x/month) and I remember thinking as a child that my dad hitting me when he was angry was better than my mom’s guilt trips, manipulation, love withdrawal and conditional love…i.e., emotional abuse. With my dad, I knew he was angry and him hitting me was because HE was angry. with my mom, I thought something was wrong with me and that I was unlovable. So, while I think hitting/spanking is unacceptable, if someone stops hitting and just substitutes that for manipulation or emotional abuse instead of actually becoming a better parent, that may not do much for the kid. However, there are too many horror stories out there still about parents who beat their kids unconscious or until they’re dead or even just hurt…those kids just need new homes and new parents.

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by Cathy Dettrey http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9581 Cathy Dettrey Sun, 01 May 2011 16:17:27 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9581 This has been a very long process for me. It has been a long spritual journey. I take being a Catholic Christian very seriously, and being a parent just as seriously. I have prayed before the blessed Sacrament, taken Holy Communion to the sick at the hospital, and lead the pro-life group at our church. On this spiritual journey, I have learned so much. I have tried to draw close to God and ask him how he wanted me to parent. I started out using spanking with my older two, and then shifted away from it when I was inspired to read about St. John Bosco. St. Therese and Mother Teresa have also influenced me greatly. What I found was, the more gently I talked and the closer I drew to my children, the less and less I had to discipline, until the need to use the "traditional" means of spanking, time-outs etc. just fell away. My older ones remember being spanked and being sent to their rooms, but my younger ones never were. The younger ones are so much better "behaved', but really they just follow my lead and it works so beautifully. I can't describe the relief and joy parenting has been since I have been on this path. The key belief is that children want to be good and please their parents, they just need to know how and why. The need to know why comes when they can reason more, for sure after age 6 or 7. Many times children have needs that are not being met, and they can't express it when they are younger except in ways adults consider "misbehavior", like meltdowns, crying, tantrums, and doing contrary things. It takes more work to acknowedge their feelings and then work to find out what happened, but it is so worth it. When I give them my unlimited time, attention, and understanding, they are just so much calmer, happier and "well behaved". I try to remember that sacrifice is the key. I am selfish and want things my way, but I am called to sacrifice and the kids follow that lead. Example is the best way to teach. I think that is why Jesus had to die on a cross and show people about sacrifice by modeling. I don't worry about where my teens/young adults are and what they are doing, and my younger kids are always getting compliments about how well they are behaved. They often stare at me in wonder when they hear an adult saying something like... that, and I just smile and wonder how I can explain in one sentence. My son Joey is doing so well in catechism. No one complains about going to church every Sunday. My older kids still all go with us ( at 19 and 21 years old). I am so grateful to God for all of my blessings. Thanks for reading this post and letting me share my story. God bless. This has been a very long process for me. It has been a long spritual journey. I take being a Catholic Christian very seriously, and being a parent just as seriously. I have prayed before the blessed Sacrament, taken Holy Communion to the sick at the hospital, and lead the pro-life group at our church. On this spiritual journey, I have learned so much. I have tried to draw close to God and ask him how he wanted me to parent. I started out using spanking with my older two, and then shifted away from it when I was inspired to read about St. John Bosco. St. Therese and Mother Teresa have also influenced me greatly. What I found was, the more gently I talked and the closer I drew to my children, the less and less I had to discipline, until the need to use the “traditional” means of spanking, time-outs etc. just fell away. My older ones remember being spanked and being sent to their rooms, but my younger ones never were. The younger ones are so much better “behaved’, but really they just follow my lead and it works so beautifully. I can’t describe the relief and joy parenting has been since I have been on this path. The key belief is that children want to be good and please their parents, they just need to know how and why. The need to know why comes when they can reason more, for sure after age 6 or 7. Many times children have needs that are not being met, and they can’t express it when they are younger except in ways adults consider “misbehavior”, like meltdowns, crying, tantrums, and doing contrary things. It takes more work to acknowedge their feelings and then work to find out what happened, but it is so worth it. When I give them my unlimited time, attention, and understanding, they are just so much calmer, happier and “well behaved”. I try to remember that sacrifice is the key. I am selfish and want things my way, but I am called to sacrifice and the kids follow that lead. Example is the best way to teach. I think that is why Jesus had to die on a cross and show people about sacrifice by modeling. I don’t worry about where my teens/young adults are and what they are doing, and my younger kids are always getting compliments about how well they are behaved. They often stare at me in wonder when they hear an adult saying something like… that, and I just smile and wonder how I can explain in one sentence. My son Joey is doing so well in catechism. No one complains about going to church every Sunday. My older kids still all go with us ( at 19 and 21 years old). I am so grateful to God for all of my blessings. Thanks for reading this post and letting me share my story. God bless.

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9525 admin Sat, 30 Apr 2011 04:38:09 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9525 Spamming my own post. :) Tara Wagner (aka The Organic Sister) just posted this link with regards to this post on her FB page. I thought it appropriate to share with you all as I am enlightened: http://parentingfreedom.com/discipline/ LOVE! Sarah Spamming my own post. :) Tara Wagner (aka The Organic Sister) just posted this link with regards to this post on her FB page. I thought it appropriate to share with you all as I am enlightened:
http://parentingfreedom.com/discipline/

LOVE!
Sarah

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9520 admin Sat, 30 Apr 2011 03:45:03 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9520 It is interesting how many ways Bible passages can be interpreted depending on the motives of the reader. While I definitely find this interpretation gentler, it still seems condescending and hierarchical to label children as 'sheep' that require steering. Neither here nor there, unfortunately, as the general populus' understanding of the passage (much like the negativity associated with the swastika symbol which actually is symbolic of 'good existence' and was around thousands of years before being used by the Nazis http://reclaimtheswastika.com/symbolism/) has allowed them to condone and defend child abuse as a religious recommendation. And it is for this reason that a portion of the passage was used as a title for the post. This site provides an interesting history on the phrase, "Spare the rod. Spoil the child." "Meaning: The notion that children will only flourish if chastised, physically or otherwise, for any wrongdoing." http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/328950.html It is interesting how many ways Bible passages can be interpreted depending on the motives of the reader. While I definitely find this interpretation gentler, it still seems condescending and hierarchical to label children as ’sheep’ that require steering. Neither here nor there, unfortunately, as the general populus’ understanding of the passage (much like the negativity associated with the swastika symbol which actually is symbolic of ‘good existence’ and was around thousands of years before being used by the Nazis http://reclaimtheswastika.com/symbolism/) has allowed them to condone and defend child abuse as a religious recommendation. And it is for this reason that a portion of the passage was used as a title for the post.

This site provides an interesting history on the phrase, “Spare the rod. Spoil the child.”
“Meaning:
The notion that children will only flourish if chastised, physically or otherwise, for any wrongdoing.”
http://www.phrases.org.uk/meanings/328950.html

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by Lisa Z http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9496 Lisa Z Fri, 29 Apr 2011 16:52:10 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9496 Yep, it's true--no good shepherd would have hit his sheep if he wanted them to come to him. I mean, that's ridiculous to even think of. This Bible verse has gotten a bad rap, when really it's a great proverb about guiding our children as a shepherd would guide his sheep to food, water, shelter, safety. The "rod" in this case is a shepherd's staff. Yep, it’s true–no good shepherd would have hit his sheep if he wanted them to come to him. I mean, that’s ridiculous to even think of. This Bible verse has gotten a bad rap, when really it’s a great proverb about guiding our children as a shepherd would guide his sheep to food, water, shelter, safety. The “rod” in this case is a shepherd’s staff.

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by DJ http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9492 DJ Fri, 29 Apr 2011 14:05:27 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9492 @Margie, I LOVE that! It is so simple as a bible verse and also easily twisted. I am so happy to see someone else who knows shepherds didn't/don't beat their sheep but guide them with their staff and rod. @Margie, I LOVE that! It is so simple as a bible verse and also easily twisted. I am so happy to see someone else who knows shepherds didn’t/don’t beat their sheep but guide them with their staff and rod.

]]> Comment on Spare the rod. Save the child. by Margie Lundy http://werhumansbeing.com/2011/04/28/spare-the-rod-save-the-child/comment-page-1/#comment-9472 Margie Lundy Fri, 29 Apr 2011 04:37:51 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=628#comment-9472 So true. I heard a lesson on the "rod" verse from your title from a shepherd that really helped my perspective. It wasn't used for beating the sheep, but for guiding and helping them go the right direction, keeping them from harm, etc. So in a loving, helpful manner of leading, not punishing or hitting (because then they wouldn't follow). I'm not a shepherd of course, but it sure made sense to me and gave me a new perspective of that verse. So true. I heard a lesson on the “rod” verse from your title from a shepherd that really helped my perspective. It wasn’t used for beating the sheep, but for guiding and helping them go the right direction, keeping them from harm, etc. So in a loving, helpful manner of leading, not punishing or hitting (because then they wouldn’t follow). I’m not a shepherd of course, but it sure made sense to me and gave me a new perspective of that verse.

]]> Comment on Inspired Words by Lisa http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/09/23/inspired-words/comment-page-1/#comment-2708 Lisa Sat, 13 Nov 2010 09:17:53 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=608#comment-2708 I stumbled on to this website and then this poem and it touch my heart so deeply. Your words rings so true to me, they touch on something I try to live in every moment of my life. I stumbled on to this website and then this poem and it touch my heart so deeply. Your words rings so true to me, they touch on something I try to live in every moment of my life.

]]> Comment on Inspired Words by Shela http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/09/23/inspired-words/comment-page-1/#comment-1570 Shela Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:58:25 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=608#comment-1570 Love this, Dan! Thanks for your tender words of wisdom! Love this, Dan! Thanks for your tender words of wisdom!

]]> Comment on HB #19- True Freedom by tonya http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/02/hb-19-true-freedom/comment-page-1/#comment-1067 tonya Sun, 22 Aug 2010 07:37:24 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=290#comment-1067 I've been listening to your podcasts backwards, from the most recent towards the first, and tonight I listened to true freedom. It's so wonderful to witness your experiences in this direction! For our family we made these financial and possession discoveries long before we knew about unschooling, or even had a child. My husband and I both went to college and both had "good" jobs, and even though those jobs were what we considered to be right livelihood - good for the community in a real way, what we were doing was not joyful for us and we lived UP to the standards of our income, always. We began a really sudden and drastic process of living purposely "poor", as we called it at the time, and have learned so much over the past ten years. Following our joy, our interests, and letting go of so much of what was always "safe" to us - it was earth shattering! When we did decide to have a child it changed even more, and I think, and hope, we will always be creating and changing, evolving in the ways that best fit our needs and desires. Bravo for following your hearts! PS: We always tell our daughter that we are rich - though we live, quite well, with very little income. I’ve been listening to your podcasts backwards, from the most recent towards the first, and tonight I listened to true freedom. It’s so wonderful to witness your experiences in this direction! For our family we made these financial and possession discoveries long before we knew about unschooling, or even had a child. My husband and I both went to college and both had “good” jobs, and even though those jobs were what we considered to be right livelihood – good for the community in a real way, what we were doing was not joyful for us and we lived UP to the standards of our income, always. We began a really sudden and drastic process of living purposely “poor”, as we called it at the time, and have learned so much over the past ten years. Following our joy, our interests, and letting go of so much of what was always “safe” to us – it was earth shattering! When we did decide to have a child it changed even more, and I think, and hope, we will always be creating and changing, evolving in the ways that best fit our needs and desires. Bravo for following your hearts! PS: We always tell our daughter that we are rich – though we live, quite well, with very little income.

]]> Comment on In Support of Nothing by Tracy Enos http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/07/09/in-support-of-nothing/comment-page-1/#comment-590 Tracy Enos Thu, 15 Jul 2010 00:57:34 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=575#comment-590 That was great!! I agree with you so much! That was great!! I agree with you so much!

]]> Comment on In Support of Nothing by Cheryl http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/07/09/in-support-of-nothing/comment-page-1/#comment-583 Cheryl Wed, 14 Jul 2010 01:50:13 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=575#comment-583 Great post, Sarah. Telling children they are doing "nothing" is often a way for parents or teachers to manipulate children to do what an adult wants them to do. It also causes shame and subverts a child's ability to figure out what activities are valuable to them. Sad. I reblogged a blurb and linked to this post on my new blog at http://fyeahunschooling.blogspot.com. Great post, Sarah. Telling children they are doing “nothing” is often a way for parents or teachers to manipulate children to do what an adult wants them to do. It also causes shame and subverts a child’s ability to figure out what activities are valuable to them. Sad.

I reblogged a blurb and linked to this post on my new blog at http://fyeahunschooling.blogspot.com.

]]> Comment on Co-Creating with Teresa Brett- Interview by Inconsistent Monday – TheOrganicSister http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/06/06/co-creating-with-teresa-brett-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-546 Inconsistent Monday – TheOrganicSister Mon, 05 Jul 2010 18:53:53 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=550#comment-546 [...] This podcast was mind-blowing, uplifting and wonderfully challenging. [...] [...] This podcast was mind-blowing, uplifting and wonderfully challenging. [...]

]]> Comment on HB #20- Product and Process- ‘Radical Parenting’- the special review by v http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/08/hb-20-product-and-process-radical-parenting-the-special-review/comment-page-1/#comment-528 v Wed, 30 Jun 2010 09:32:37 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=340#comment-528 I'm about to admit how clueless I am about tv, but we only have the basic channels here. (I didn't even know that Discovery Health was its own channel.) I'm trying to find a way to watch these segments or the show you're discussing here, but I'm not sure how to do that. Is Radical Parenting the name of the show? Is there a way to watch this online or, perhaps, order it from Netflix (which we do have)? Thanks. (I'm still listening to the beginning of this podcast episode, so I apologize if you address my question within. I'm about to head off to bed and I'll have to finish listening later.) I’m about to admit how clueless I am about tv, but we only have the basic channels here. (I didn’t even know that Discovery Health was its own channel.) I’m trying to find a way to watch these segments or the show you’re discussing here, but I’m not sure how to do that. Is Radical Parenting the name of the show? Is there a way to watch this online or, perhaps, order it from Netflix (which we do have)?

Thanks.

(I’m still listening to the beginning of this podcast episode, so I apologize if you address my question within. I’m about to head off to bed and I’ll have to finish listening later.)

]]> Comment on HB #19- True Freedom by v http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/02/hb-19-true-freedom/comment-page-1/#comment-527 v Wed, 30 Jun 2010 08:59:24 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=290#comment-527 I am listening to this podcast right now. I love hearing your story about coming to realize that your bills and possessions and some kinds of jobs are holding you back from being happy. We've been realizing this and acting on this for years now. It's amazing to me how different we are as far as our bills and spending are now compared to almost a decade ago. I know that we are more happy now than we were before. I value our time together as a family so much more than any of our possessions. Given that you said you guys were considered about upper middle class (I think that's what you said), your shift is much more dramatic than ours (I'm not sure we ever technically reached middle class), but I so relate. (I'm almost caught up on the podcasts!) I am listening to this podcast right now. I love hearing your story about coming to realize that your bills and possessions and some kinds of jobs are holding you back from being happy. We’ve been realizing this and acting on this for years now. It’s amazing to me how different we are as far as our bills and spending are now compared to almost a decade ago. I know that we are more happy now than we were before. I value our time together as a family so much more than any of our possessions. Given that you said you guys were considered about upper middle class (I think that’s what you said), your shift is much more dramatic than ours (I’m not sure we ever technically reached middle class), but I so relate.

(I’m almost caught up on the podcasts!)

]]> Comment on Rethink Everything! by deb the Turtle http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/06/27/rethink-everything/comment-page-1/#comment-519 deb the Turtle Mon, 28 Jun 2010 15:29:14 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=566#comment-519 so looking forward to issue number 3! so looking forward to issue number 3!

]]> Comment on HB #21- Do You Strew? by life is not a unit study http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/08/hb-21-do-you-strew/comment-page-1/#comment-467 life is not a unit study Sun, 20 Jun 2010 03:52:52 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=433#comment-467 [...] blog and listen to her entire podcast on this fascinating subject for more information: HB#21: Do You Strew?. What I really want to share here, though, is one thing that Sarah offered in her show that stuck [...] [...] blog and listen to her entire podcast on this fascinating subject for more information: HB#21: Do You Strew?. What I really want to share here, though, is one thing that Sarah offered in her show that stuck [...]

]]> Comment on HB#9- Why Not School? by v http://werhumansbeing.com/2008/11/11/hb9-why-not-school/comment-page-1/#comment-325 v Fri, 28 May 2010 07:49:08 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=118#comment-325 I am listening to this podcast right now and I am *loving* the discussion on socializing/socialization(s). (I came to this podcast through your recent interview with Tara. I'm glad I've been introduced to this.) I am listening to this podcast right now and I am *loving* the discussion on socializing/socialization(s).

(I came to this podcast through your recent interview with Tara. I’m glad I’ve been introduced to this.)

]]> Comment on HB #2- Finding the Real World by Finding Personal Connections | Humans Being http://werhumansbeing.com/2008/09/28/hb-2-finding-the-real-world/comment-page-1/#comment-318 Finding Personal Connections | Humans Being Fri, 28 May 2010 03:46:44 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=62#comment-318 [...] at this and it has been successful each and every time.  In southern NH, myself and 4 comrades- meeting through perfect serendipity (and a post on a national unschooling yahoogroup )- began a larger area unschooling group called [...] [...] at this and it has been successful each and every time.  In southern NH, myself and 4 comrades- meeting through perfect serendipity (and a post on a national unschooling yahoogroup )- began a larger area unschooling group called [...]

]]> Comment on CPS- We’re A-OK by Augustine Tackett http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/16/cps-were-a-ok/comment-page-1/#comment-317 Augustine Tackett Fri, 28 May 2010 02:17:38 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=384#comment-317 You've done it once again. Great read! You’ve done it once again. Great read!

]]> Comment on Good Morning America- Sheds Uninformed Opinion on Unschooling by Ka Ticket http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/19/good-morning-america-sheds-uninformed-opinion-on-unschooling/comment-page-1/#comment-287 Ka Ticket Tue, 25 May 2010 18:48:57 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=439#comment-287 Thanks for the nice post... Thanks for the nice post…

]]> Comment on Trust and Pixie Dust by Arp http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/14/trust-and-pixie-dust/comment-page-1/#comment-273 Arp Mon, 24 May 2010 03:47:42 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=510#comment-273 Right on. This also brings to mind something I read recently (which I can't completely remember), that people say they want a lot of things but if they *really* want something they will work hard to make it happen. Lots of peeps say they want to spend more time with family but do they? Or work less, play more? Travel? Learn how to (insert cool skill/activity here)? Right on. This also brings to mind something I read recently (which I can’t completely remember), that people say they want a lot of things but if they *really* want something they will work hard to make it happen. Lots of peeps say they want to spend more time with family but do they? Or work less, play more? Travel? Learn how to (insert cool skill/activity here)?

]]> Comment on Trust and Pixie Dust by Hip Mountain Mama http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/14/trust-and-pixie-dust/comment-page-1/#comment-257 Hip Mountain Mama Wed, 19 May 2010 21:46:05 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=510#comment-257 thanks for this inspiring post and for your 3 general steps. We took a financial hit in November when my husband quit his 9-5 job to join my on line business. We haven't missed the extra money a bit as we are living out our dream of working/living from home and raising our daughters together! Suzy thanks for this inspiring post and for your 3 general steps. We took a financial hit in November when my husband quit his 9-5 job to join my on line business. We haven’t missed the extra money a bit as we are living out our dream of working/living from home and raising our daughters together!
Suzy

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-254 admin Tue, 18 May 2010 07:41:40 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-254 I don't think there are many husbands who want to work all day at a boring/unsatisfying job and hear about all the fun things moms and kids do. What we were getting at was how to change our lives in such a way that the breadwinner's work is enjoyable and/or self-directed so that they don't feel like the drone supporter of the lifestyle- minimizing expenses, entrepreneurship, thinking outside the box, etc. My husband and I are both graduate prepared professionals who have discovered that we are much happier being self-sufficient entrepreneurs. I am a Registered Nurse and, having practiced for 12 years, am very well-versed in the medical system. That being said, no one in our house has been to a doctor in the three years since we have become enlightened in what health and wellness really means. We have decreased the stress level in our home (by prioritizing healthful behaviors- whole foods, rest, and choice in our actions (a la lowered stress)), begun using chiropractic, acupuncture, homeopathy, herbs, etc. to support health rather than the traditional allopathic mindset of staving off illness and treating symptoms rather than underlying issues. It is easy to feel bound by the system. The current is strong and fear is pervasive and used manipulatively by government and corporations. However, I personally know many single mothers who homeschool and unschool and have set up their work and home lives to facilitate this choice. I also know many couples who are completely entrepreneurial and both taking a large part in the child rearing process. It took me into my thirties to realize that I could live the life I idealized. I just had to see past the fear and feel confident in my capabilities. I would love to talk with you more about this. I don’t think there are many husbands who want to work all day at a boring/unsatisfying job and hear about all the fun things moms and kids do. What we were getting at was how to change our lives in such a way that the breadwinner’s work is enjoyable and/or self-directed so that they don’t feel like the drone supporter of the lifestyle- minimizing expenses, entrepreneurship, thinking outside the box, etc.

My husband and I are both graduate prepared professionals who have discovered that we are much happier being self-sufficient entrepreneurs. I am a Registered Nurse and, having practiced for 12 years, am very well-versed in the medical system. That being said, no one in our house has been to a doctor in the three years since we have become enlightened in what health and wellness really means. We have decreased the stress level in our home (by prioritizing healthful behaviors- whole foods, rest, and choice in our actions (a la lowered stress)), begun using chiropractic, acupuncture, homeopathy, herbs, etc. to support health rather than the traditional allopathic mindset of staving off illness and treating symptoms rather than underlying issues.

It is easy to feel bound by the system. The current is strong and fear is pervasive and used manipulatively by government and corporations. However, I personally know many single mothers who homeschool and unschool and have set up their work and home lives to facilitate this choice. I also know many couples who are completely entrepreneurial and both taking a large part in the child rearing process. It took me into my thirties to realize that I could live the life I idealized. I just had to see past the fear and feel confident in my capabilities. I would love to talk with you more about this.

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by Fishgirl http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-252 Fishgirl Tue, 18 May 2010 06:08:27 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-252 Are you kidding me? Where are these men who just want to provide and hear what fun things you do throughout your day??? I'm an aging graduate student who wants to have a child, but my man will not support me. I will need to support myself. This means graduating and getting a 'real' job, so that I can have health care. I am skilled at all sorts of crafty, self-sufficiencies, and would love the exploration of home-schooling my child, but feel bound by this system: how do you care for children without health care in this country? Are you kidding me? Where are these men who just want to provide and hear what fun things you do throughout your day??? I’m an aging graduate student who wants to have a child, but my man will not support me. I will need to support myself. This means graduating and getting a ‘real’ job, so that I can have health care. I am skilled at all sorts of crafty, self-sufficiencies, and would love the exploration of home-schooling my child, but feel bound by this system: how do you care for children without health care in this country?

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-239 admin Sun, 16 May 2010 05:03:56 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-239 Love this. Great point, Shannon. That is definitely the shift that we are undergoing- the realization of connection as being just as important as financial stability and how to balance the two. Love this. Great point, Shannon. That is definitely the shift that we are undergoing- the realization of connection as being just as important as financial stability and how to balance the two.

]]> Comment on Trust and Pixie Dust by Lisa Igo http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/14/trust-and-pixie-dust/comment-page-1/#comment-237 Lisa Igo Sat, 15 May 2010 08:44:41 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=510#comment-237 Loved the podcast with Tara and Justin. Learning so much from your blogs and trying to find a way for us. Awe and wonder to inspire and keep my dream alive. Xx Loved the podcast with Tara and Justin. Learning so much from your blogs and trying to find a way for us.

Awe and wonder to inspire and keep my dream alive. Xx

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by Shannon http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-236 Shannon Sat, 15 May 2010 06:29:38 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-236 Hey, I wanted to chime in on the question you asked Justin toward the end of this podcast, if I may.?.?.? I'm not a man, but my husband is one and we've been making our plan to hit the road as well and we are in the beginning of deschooling and starting to unschool our son. And during all this preparation I've been checking in with him repeatedly, as I want to make sure I'm not making "my" plan for "us". He is a man, like so many, who wants to provide for us. He works hard and often and loves the idea of me not having to work if I don't want to and enjoys hearing about what we do throughout our days. At any rate, I think something to be explained to men about a transition into a relaxed way of life is that it's in a man's biology to provide, it's instinctual. All this takes is a re-defining of the word provide. It sounds like through Justin's experience he's found that he supports and provides for the family still financially, but also in terms of emotional support and not all the shoulder snot-wiping that men may initially think about. He wrote on his blog about taking Zeb on a bus for the first time, going fishing with him a short while ago, and he continues to fix their home on wheels and ensure that they have a wonderful place to be that is safe and secure. I think if men can take that and see it as just as valuable (in my opinion, actually MORE valuable) they may find the inspiration they're looking for. Hey, I wanted to chime in on the question you asked Justin toward the end of this podcast, if I may.?.?.? I’m not a man, but my husband is one and we’ve been making our plan to hit the road as well and we are in the beginning of deschooling and starting to unschool our son. And during all this preparation I’ve been checking in with him repeatedly, as I want to make sure I’m not making “my” plan for “us”. He is a man, like so many, who wants to provide for us. He works hard and often and loves the idea of me not having to work if I don’t want to and enjoys hearing about what we do throughout our days.

At any rate, I think something to be explained to men about a transition into a relaxed way of life is that it’s in a man’s biology to provide, it’s instinctual. All this takes is a re-defining of the word provide. It sounds like through Justin’s experience he’s found that he supports and provides for the family still financially, but also in terms of emotional support and not all the shoulder snot-wiping that men may initially think about. He wrote on his blog about taking Zeb on a bus for the first time, going fishing with him a short while ago, and he continues to fix their home on wheels and ensure that they have a wonderful place to be that is safe and secure. I think if men can take that and see it as just as valuable (in my opinion, actually MORE valuable) they may find the inspiration they’re looking for.

]]> Comment on Trust and Pixie Dust by laura http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/14/trust-and-pixie-dust/comment-page-1/#comment-235 laura Sat, 15 May 2010 05:08:34 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=510#comment-235 i just can't even believe how the stars aligned this second. i just can’t even believe how the stars aligned this second.

]]> Comment on Trust and Pixie Dust by ~Tara http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/14/trust-and-pixie-dust/comment-page-1/#comment-234 ~Tara Sat, 15 May 2010 04:57:41 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=510#comment-234 "We escape to entertainment to once again feel the possibility of freedom, fulfillment, and consciousness that was encouraged and then left behind in the innocence of youth." So true. I've seen people's eyes light up with the radical notions portrayed in a movie or documentary, who wholeheartedly *see* something for the first time, only to shrug it off as idealism and shuffle back to the living dead. When did idealism become a dirty word? Why can't our ideals become our reality? “We escape to entertainment to once again feel the possibility of freedom, fulfillment, and consciousness that was encouraged and then left behind in the innocence of youth.”

So true. I’ve seen people’s eyes light up with the radical notions portrayed in a movie or documentary, who wholeheartedly *see* something for the first time, only to shrug it off as idealism and shuffle back to the living dead.

When did idealism become a dirty word? Why can’t our ideals become our reality?

]]> Comment on Unschooling- The Real Story by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/25/unschooling-the-real-story/comment-page-1/#comment-229 admin Sat, 15 May 2010 02:01:42 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=453#comment-229 Shall we examine the rationale and whether public schools are an effective or detrimental piece of our society? Essential as a means of oversight for children who would otherwise not have adult guidance during their waking hours- yes. This is undeniable. There are much more effective means of this that would provide children with resources, choice, and an opportunity to thrive educationally and socially that do not involve wasting children's time in a setting that is socially, emotionally, and educationally stunting and potentially physically dangerous. Shall we examine the rationale and whether public schools are an effective or detrimental piece of our society? Essential as a means of oversight for children who would otherwise not have adult guidance during their waking hours- yes. This is undeniable. There are much more effective means of this that would provide children with resources, choice, and an opportunity to thrive educationally and socially that do not involve wasting children’s time in a setting that is socially, emotionally, and educationally stunting and potentially physically dangerous.

]]> Comment on Unschooling- The Real Story by parka rain jacket http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/25/unschooling-the-real-story/comment-page-1/#comment-228 parka rain jacket Fri, 14 May 2010 16:22:58 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=453#comment-228 Public schools aren't perfect, nonetheless they are generally an essential piece of the country for many people Public schools aren’t perfect, nonetheless they are generally an essential piece of the country for many people

]]> Comment on Unschooling- The Real Story by Jeannette Southard http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/25/unschooling-the-real-story/comment-page-1/#comment-224 Jeannette Southard Fri, 14 May 2010 05:05:56 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=453#comment-224 Super-Duper site! I am loving it!! Will come back again - taking you feeds also, Thanks. Super-Duper site! I am loving it!! Will come back again – taking you feeds also, Thanks.

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by Vanessa http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-223 Vanessa Thu, 13 May 2010 22:33:32 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-223 I love hearing this- to hear Tara's voice is really great. I had a question for Tara and her man- did your 5 year plan have to do with the fact taht you were wanting to get on with this nomadic life style, or was it more because that is the 'right' thing to do when you are a 'responsible adult'? Just curious, because this is the biggest thing holding my husband back from considering this type of lifestyle with me. I think I will have him listen to this podcast :) Thanks so much to all of you for sharing this! I love hearing this- to hear Tara’s voice is really great.
I had a question for Tara and her man- did your 5 year plan have to do with the fact taht you were wanting to get on with this nomadic life style, or was it more because that is the ‘right’ thing to do when you are a ‘responsible adult’? Just curious, because this is the biggest thing holding my husband back from considering this type of lifestyle with me. I think I will have him listen to this podcast :)
Thanks so much to all of you for sharing this!

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-217 admin Wed, 12 May 2010 19:50:47 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-217 Wahoo! Thanks for sharing. I don't think I've ever heard/seen the full quote. Love Thoreau. This was really fun. I will exchange appreciation with you, Tara! Wahoo! Thanks for sharing. I don’t think I’ve ever heard/seen the full quote. Love Thoreau. This was really fun. I will exchange appreciation with you, Tara!

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by Margie http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-215 Margie Wed, 12 May 2010 16:55:20 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-215 Fun, thanks for sharing this! :) Fun, thanks for sharing this! :)

]]> Comment on Good Morning America- Sheds Uninformed Opinion on Unschooling by renaissance clothing http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/19/good-morning-america-sheds-uninformed-opinion-on-unschooling/comment-page-1/#comment-213 renaissance clothing Wed, 12 May 2010 07:01:24 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=439#comment-213 Nice! Nice!

]]> Comment on HB #23- The Organic Life- Wagner Interview by ~Tara http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/05/11/hb-23-the-organic-life-wagner-interview/comment-page-1/#comment-212 ~Tara Wed, 12 May 2010 06:20:27 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=488#comment-212 Found the full quote! Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined. As you simplify your life, the laws of the universe will be simpler. ~ Henry David Thoreau :) Thanks for this opportunity, Sarah. Found the full quote!

Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you’ve imagined. As you simplify your life, the laws of the universe will be simpler. ~ Henry David Thoreau

:)

Thanks for this opportunity, Sarah.

]]> Comment on Good Morning America- Sheds Uninformed Opinion on Unschooling by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/19/good-morning-america-sheds-uninformed-opinion-on-unschooling/comment-page-1/#comment-199 admin Wed, 05 May 2010 02:48:26 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=439#comment-199 Hi Maggie! I'm finding more and more of a support network out there. It's really amazing how many of us there are- many being very outspoken as advocates and bloggers. Facebook, yahoogroups, Meet-Ups, etc. I'm glad you found me, too! I add links all the time so keep checking back. Have you listened to the podcasts? I've said a lot with a lot more to say... :) LOVE to you! Hi Maggie!
I’m finding more and more of a support network out there. It’s really amazing how many of us there are- many being very outspoken as advocates and bloggers. Facebook, yahoogroups, Meet-Ups, etc. I’m glad you found me, too! I add links all the time so keep checking back. Have you listened to the podcasts? I’ve said a lot with a lot more to say… :) LOVE to you!

]]> Comment on Considering ‘Radical Parenting’ by admin http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/04/radical-parenting-a-success/comment-page-1/#comment-198 admin Wed, 05 May 2010 02:46:27 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=329#comment-198 Hi Nella! Glad you found me. I always have a lot to say about connecting with children and maintaining fruitful relationships. Have you checked out the magazine I recently began co-publishing? www.rethinkingeverythingmagazine.net I also recommend Natural Life and Mothering. LOVE! Hi Nella! Glad you found me. I always have a lot to say about connecting with children and maintaining fruitful relationships. Have you checked out the magazine I recently began co-publishing? http://www.rethinkingeverythingmagazine.net
I also recommend Natural Life and Mothering.
LOVE!

]]> Comment on Considering ‘Radical Parenting’ by Nella Yannotti http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/04/radical-parenting-a-success/comment-page-1/#comment-195 Nella Yannotti Mon, 03 May 2010 15:55:36 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=329#comment-195 Me along with my husband are anticipating our first child here in 2 months. As a soon to be new mama I i'm working to be able to learn as much as viable. This web-site had been genuinely helpful. I am scouting around for the purpose of new data all the time in addition to I unquestionably really like to learn and consequently I read quite a bit. Incase you have got any writers as well as publications relating to new mothers you could quite possibly strongly recommend I would definitely value the bit of advice. Me along with my husband are anticipating our first child here in 2 months. As a soon to be new mama I i’m working to be able to learn as much as viable. This web-site had been genuinely helpful. I am scouting around for the purpose of new data all the time in addition to I unquestionably really like to learn and consequently I read quite a bit. Incase you have got any writers as well as publications relating to new mothers you could quite possibly strongly recommend I would definitely value the bit of advice.

]]> Comment on HB #13- Unparenting- the sequel by gentle steps towards unschooling ourselves http://werhumansbeing.com/2009/06/25/hb-13-unparenting-the-sequel/comment-page-1/#comment-189 gentle steps towards unschooling ourselves Sat, 01 May 2010 18:40:31 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=182#comment-189 [...] very well in her two episodes on “Unparenting.” Find them here: HB #12: Unparenting and HB #13: Unparenting (the sequel). Below is an excerpt from the show notes: We are here for each other. We will all (children and [...] [...] very well in her two episodes on “Unparenting.” Find them here: HB #12: Unparenting and HB #13: Unparenting (the sequel). Below is an excerpt from the show notes: We are here for each other. We will all (children and [...]

]]> Comment on HB#12- Unparenting by gentle steps towards unschooling ourselves http://werhumansbeing.com/2009/04/03/hb12-unparenting/comment-page-1/#comment-188 gentle steps towards unschooling ourselves Sat, 01 May 2010 17:48:55 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=160#comment-188 [...] of these matters so very well in her two episodes on “Unparenting.” Find them here: HB #12: Unparenting and HB #13: Unparenting (the sequel). Below is an excerpt from the show notes: We are here for each [...] [...] of these matters so very well in her two episodes on “Unparenting.” Find them here: HB #12: Unparenting and HB #13: Unparenting (the sequel). Below is an excerpt from the show notes: We are here for each [...]

]]> Comment on Good Morning America- Sheds Uninformed Opinion on Unschooling by Maggie Lesoing http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/19/good-morning-america-sheds-uninformed-opinion-on-unschooling/comment-page-1/#comment-187 Maggie Lesoing Sat, 01 May 2010 16:23:41 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=439#comment-187 That ABC 'news' video was really irritating. Bias sucks. I loved what you wrote in response, so bravo to you. I find that as an unschooling family we have little to no support from 'others,' but then again, we aren't seeking approval from others because we have only ourselves to please. So, thanks again for your wise words. Also, glad I found your site! There are lots of great link here I have to check out. Best wishes to you! That ABC ‘news’ video was really irritating. Bias sucks. I loved what you wrote in response, so bravo to you. I find that as an unschooling family we have little to no support from ‘others,’ but then again, we aren’t seeking approval from others because we have only ourselves to please. So, thanks again for your wise words. Also, glad I found your site! There are lots of great link here I have to check out. Best wishes to you!

]]> Comment on Radical Parents Talk Back by Shirley Alvis http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/20/radical-parents-talk-back/comment-page-1/#comment-186 Shirley Alvis Sat, 01 May 2010 12:56:48 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=413#comment-186 Hi! Just had to respond. I honestly was impressed by your opinion. Keep up the great work. Hi! Just had to respond. I honestly was impressed by your opinion. Keep up the great work.

]]> Comment on Good Morning America- Sheds Uninformed Opinion on Unschooling by Unschooling- The Real Story | Humans Being http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/19/good-morning-america-sheds-uninformed-opinion-on-unschooling/comment-page-1/#comment-161 Unschooling- The Real Story | Humans Being Mon, 26 Apr 2010 02:18:48 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=439#comment-161 [...] More specifically, the writer of the blog lived up to the initials following her name and questioned Good Morning America’s edited portrayal and highly biased discussion of the unschooling lifestyle.  She conveyed her gut reaction after [...] [...] More specifically, the writer of the blog lived up to the initials following her name and questioned Good Morning America’s edited portrayal and highly biased discussion of the unschooling lifestyle.  She conveyed her gut reaction after [...]

]]> Comment on Good Morning America- Featuring Unedited Unschoolers by Lezlie Payne http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/04/20/good-morning-america-featuring-unedited-unschoolers/comment-page-1/#comment-152 Lezlie Payne Wed, 21 Apr 2010 13:16:45 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=446#comment-152 I will not be tuning in to Good Morning America in the future. I will tell others not to watch GMA as well. I will not be tuning in to Good Morning America in the future. I will tell others not to watch GMA as well.

]]> Comment on This IS the Real World. by Good Morning America- Featuring Unedited Unschoolers | Humans Being http://werhumansbeing.com/2010/03/24/this-is-the-real-world/comment-page-1/#comment-145 Good Morning America- Featuring Unedited Unschoolers | Humans Being Tue, 20 Apr 2010 14:49:07 +0000 http://werhumansbeing.com/?p=417#comment-145 [...] to a few of the major concerns noted on GMA’s viewer comment thread- How will unschoolers get a job and function as adults?  How will they have exposure to choice and o...  How will they function as adults having never had structure or boundaries?  Yablonski, Biegler, [...] [...] to a few of the major concerns noted on GMA’s viewer comment thread- How will unschoolers get a job and function as adults?  How will they have exposure to choice and o…  How will they function as adults having never had structure or boundaries?  Yablonski, Biegler, [...]

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