The ABC's of a Charlotte Mason Education

B is for Balance

Masterly Inactivity and Living Books

Common Place Quarterly

Apr 18, 2023

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Balance: isn’t that what we as home educating parents need more than anything? In choosing this life we find ourselves at an interesting intersection of parent and teacher, a role that while primal and fitting, has had its naturalness so clouded by modern perceptions that we are sometimes paralyzed by the expectations.

In the melee of modern definitions, we have lost what it means to be both parent and teacher—simultaneously. In the zeal to do one thing well, we tend to over-due or neglect something else in its pursuit. How can we do both, and do both well? Often the strain is not felt until the application. And then, midyear we feel burnout and failure lurking. What is needed is balance. Part of what Ms. Mason offers us are tools for achieving balance. A way to be both parent and teacher, a way to see ourselves; not as either-or, but both. A harmonious both.

Masterly Inactivity dignifies the parent/teacher role. Gives me permission to say no. Frees me from being at the children’s whims and disposal. Reminds me of the dignity of my position. Reminds me not to hover and flutter.

“It is OKAY”, Masterly Inactivity soothes. “This is not all up to you. Stop acting like it is.” I am called to work hand in hand with the Holy Spirit who is the one guiding and directing—and will. not. fail. My hand in His, not pulling, but being led. I am to be available at His nudge—not my children’s, and certainly not my fears’. Masterly Inactivity lets me stand aside, trail, assist. It presses me into trust.

In things of education, Masterly Inactivity and Living Books form a symbiotic relationship. Not only does each benefit the other, but I wonder if Masterly Inactivity is even possible without the other. If Masterly Inactivity allows for dignity, Living Books allow for Masterly Inactivity. Without them Masterly Inactivity becomes another hoop to jump through, another expectation, another burden. The only way I can possibly stand aside and assist is if the lesson isn’t dependent on me. Being the “showman of the universe” may be exhilarating at times, but it is also tiring. When Living Books are the lesson it is easier to practice trust, practice rest, practice Masterly Inactivity.

From this place of balance, I can extend balance to my students. Lessons that are not a crush of need, but varied—Lessons scheduled purposefully; aware that a “change is as good as a break”. A space on the schedule for poetry up against a math session. A folk song after a reading. Free time tucked in when there are still things to be done. A carefully thought out this-and-then-that. A planned rhythm that not only benefits the lesson and the learner but sets a mood for the day, the week, the year… perhaps even for a life?

Ms. Mason once reminded one of her student teachers, “My dear, you have come here to learn to live.” This is what Masterly Inactivity and Varied Lessons remind me of; they are an echoing whisper of that same encouragement offered so many years ago. My dear, it is not parenting or teaching. It is both. It is life. Learn to live it well—here is permission, here are tools, and here is how to use them.

Sara Timothy 2023

Common Place Quarterly

B is for Balance

Masterly Inactivity and Living Books

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