“The skilful traveller leaves no traces of his wheels or footsteps; the skilful speaker says nothing that can be found fault with or blamed; the skilful reckoner uses no tallies; the skilful closer needs no bolts or bars, while to open what he has shut will be impossible; the skilful binder uses no strings or knots, while to unloose what he has bound will be impossible. In the same way the sage is always skilful at saving men, and so he does not cast away any man; he is always skilful at saving things, and so he does not cast away anything. This is called ‘Hiding the light of his procedure.’

Therefore the man of skill is a master (to be looked up to) by him who has not the skill; and he who has not the skill is the helper of (the reputation of) him who has the skill. If the one did not honour his master, and the other did not rejoice in his helper, an (observer), though intelligent, might greatly err about them. This is called ‘The utmost degree of mystery.’” ~ Tao Te Ching, Verse 27, translated by James Legge 1891

The Tao Te Ching is a classical Chinese text rich with instruction on living a meaningful life. This particular verse sheds light on the importance of a correctly balanced student-teacher relationship in any process of learning. Whether in a formal educational setting, at home or in the workplace, the principle described describes the means by which the light of understanding is transmitted and received, a process commonly referred to as enlightenment.

Mutual respect is the best foundation for any enterprise. Respect bears great weight without strain, withstands scorching heat without being consumed and holds up to any amount of pressure. When respect is missing, the gravity and intensity of a circumstance invariably overcome those involved, in one way or another.

Four of my employees are undertaking an intense internship over the next few months, two on each side of the “skill/no skill” equation. Properly handled, this time will transform their lives, our company and those whom we have the privilege to work with, directly and indirectly. Needless to say, an important period of time for many. My hope is, and I have articulated this to all four, that they put respect for one another first and foremost, so that the knowledge has a form into which it can be safely poured.

The master properly recognizes the need to respect his or her material. Likewise, the wise student honors his teacher at every turn. This approach is especially useful when the teacher is new to the process of teaching and when the student is a fast learner. Respect and honor grease the wheels and prevent many unnecessary heartaches.

The next time you find yourself on one side of the equation or another, remember these words. Take them to heart and hold them dearly. Learning without respect only results in the shuffling of knowledge, whereas learning in an  atmosphere enriched by respect is the basis by which the seeds of wisdom are planted and take root.