Blame It On Geometry

I would like to start off thanking all the people in my life that stay consistent.  Relationships you can count on are priceless.
Today, I would like to share something I know we have all experienced - that moment where you are completely lost.  For some, it comes in a meeting, where information is being presentented, and there is a chance you may have to chime in with input.  The only problem is you have no clue of a relevant answer.  For students, and I have been there, it may come in a math class.  I remember loving math, and then one day Geometry happened.  I still to this day do not understand Proofs and Theorems.  Well, let me be a bit more specific.  I do not understand how to apply them to the steps of an algebraic equation.  What's funny is Algebra was my favorite part of math.  Back to the point, what do you do when there is a chance you may be called on?   Do you begin to formulate a solution that at least sounds intelligent even if it does not address the question?  Do you try to raise your hand and agree with someone else - often times just adding something to what they have already said?  That is a good one as it often buys you some time as surely you will not be called upon without others having to add more input.  If driving, do you just keep going - hoping eventually you will see something you recognize - or call someone?  To go a step further, what if you are called?  I have been called and remember sweat dropping from my underarms, and I know I used deo.  I went with a long, "uhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh, well..."  I can laugh now, but in the moment, I was terrified.  What are we so afraid of?  Looking stupid.  Not living up to our peers.  Just being embarrassed as not being prepared, despite truly just not understanding.  Whatever may be the decision, own it.  I own that Geometry is my worst subject.  Funny thing is as many times as I have expressed that to people, no one has ever offered to help me truly understand.  My teacher - Mr. Smith - was his name was truly understanding.  Did he help me?  He tried but in the end, no understanding.  As a hard worker, wasn't a disruption in class - at least not normally - I eventually passed.  But that knowledge, or lack of, hurt later on.  Not bad, but I always knew I would stuggle when those concepts were mentioned, and I had to compensate by doing better on other areas.  What I have learned is we all have those stumps, but even more importantly, what about all the other things we actually know.  Secondly, those things we have learned by many hours of explanation by someone who took time to work us through our lack of knowledge should be applauded.  They could actually help us understand.  So the next time you are lost if called upon, own it.  I can't promise the outcome will always be positive but see if you can find that person to help.  Also, be that person to help someone understand something that has them completely stumped.  If you can't afford that response - I am a realist - so I understand.  The piggy-back approach is pretty good.  Also, try to respond first and pose a bit of a question.  However the situation ends, walk away knowing what you don't know.  Hopefully, you will one day truly understand.  In my case, not knowing Geometry that well has helped me become a better teacher, debater, etc.  I can go on and on and on trying to help someone understand even if they never understand and eventually walk away calling me annoying.  Oh well - blame it on Geometry.