I really like this proverb because it makes one think about the importance of teaching and spreading knowledge. If previous generations did not teach present generations new dicoveries and technologies then we would be living in a static world. Therefore, it is important to share information and ideas with others because that is how we are able to grow and learn. If others just do the work for you then you gain nothing and are not able to do it for yourself. This can result in a person becoming so dependent on others for things that learned helplessness occurs and the person can not distinguish between things he or she can or can not do. Instead, that person believes that he/she is uncapable and help is needed from others to complete any task.
In America we live in such a fast paced world that we expect to do things in the blink of an eye. Most of us will probably admit(including myself) that we have completed a task for someone else because we became impatient when that person did not follow our directions or understand what we were trying to teach them. It is much easier to just do it for them because it gets done faster. Although this may be true, it is important that we spend the extra few minutes going over something with someone until that person has learned how to do it independently. It is actually hurting them by doing it for them. We must stick by a person no matter how frustrating it is because it is important that the person learns the skill and is able to complete it on their own. Imagine if teachers just did the work for a student if they had a problem instead of going back and teaching it another way until that student understood it. They would not be called teachers anymore just helpers that students would rely on for constant assistance instead of information and knowledge.
Knowledge is power so be sure to teach others what you know!
