glass darkly, in the shadows of my unexamined life-and when I cannot see them clearly, I cannot teach them well" (p. 2).
Good teaching comes from the heart, from the true identity of the teacher, from a long and arduous journey of self-examination. It is not reliant on prescribed lesson packets, meticulously written lesson plans, efficient classroom management, and success on standardized tests. It is reliant on passionate teachers who are engaged in self-discovery and their own continuous growth; creative teachers excited about the possibilities of diverse thought; fairminded teachers committed to the principles of equity; and caring teachers filled with a deep compassion for others. Good teaching is reflective of the teacher as person in a very holistic way. It is reflective of the mind, the heart, the soul, the very being that is the teacher. It is reflective of the teacher's place along the journey of "becoming." It is reflective of the teacher's disposition toward learning and the degree to which wonder, curiosity, and wisdom converge in his or her work.
This process of "becoming" is a lifelong endeavor. It is a process that will allow you to infuse your work with artistic expression of your love of teaching and learning. Five dimensions
of autobiographical inquiry have been identified as a framework
for getting to know yourself better for purposes of greater  understanding, living, loving, and, ultimately, teaching. These dimensions are: (1) awakening to yourself, (2) traveling with a trusted guide, (3) associating with self-aware others, (4) engaging in dialogue, and (5) becoming the individual you desire to be.
Awakening to Yourself

Though developing a social philosophy of living and teaching is enriched through interaction with others, it depends on your taking time to spend some contemplative moments alone and asking yourself some deeply personal questions:

 Am I attending to the needs of my heart and soul?
  How can I begin to understand who I am, how I am, and why I am?
49What can I say I truly believe in?