Jill Calbi

Teacher

9/20/16

Favorite Quote:

“Now there are many, many people in the world, but relatively few with whom we interact, and even fewer who cause us problems. So when you come across such a chance for practicing patience and tolerance, you should treat it with gratitude. It is rare. Just as having unexpectedly found a treasure in your own house, you should be happy and grateful toward your enemy for providing you that precious opportunity. Because if you are ever to be successful in your practice of patience and tolerance, which are critical factors in counteracting negative emotions, it is due to your own efforts and also the opportunity provided by your enemy.”

– The Dalai Lama XIV

What are your core values?

Integrity: Honest in my thoughts, in my words and in my actions.
Compassion: For those less fortunate.
Passion: In all that I do, otherwise, what’s the point?

How do you define “value”?

“Value is the importance placed on everything in life. I think Locke and Jefferson did a pretty good job getting things started. Life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness – which to me includes unconditional love, mental health, and compassion for others.”

What separates you from others in your field?

“That’s a tough question. Perhaps the answer is values. Perhaps it’s nothing. I’m not sure self-transcendence is a common goal among my peers, but it is probably necessary to be a great teacher. I’m not there yet, I’m still aspiring.”

What advice would you give someone trying to provide value in their job, profession, or field?

“Do what you love and love what you do. A great career is less about the job and more about what you can contribute. There are happy trash collectors and miserable billionaires. Find your passion, let it become your purpose, and then your profession.”

What motivates you?

“Self-Transcendence. Learning is a life-long process. The more I learn and understand, the more I am able to rise above my own needs and become a positive and integral part of the world around me.”