Wednesday, February 20, 2013

a project with results


"Any project without results does not have a reason for being.  The Orchestra System project gives results." 
(Gustavo Dudamel, Tocar y Luchar)

This weeks quote comes from the documentary Tocar y Luchar.  Gustavo Dudamel, a young up and coming conductor, comments on the Orchestra System in Venezuela and it's overwhelming success.  Not only does Dudamel express how great the Orchestra System is, but he also gives great insight into programs and products in general.  Dudamel explains that if something doesn't fulfill its purpose, then it has no point.  That seems simple, right? The way that Dudamel put it made me think.  I started reflecting on times when I was a part of something that didn't produce results.

We have all been in situations where we've expected an outcome but it never came;  maybe your "resultless" project was a failed diet or a faulty gadget off TV.  The experiences are different but the feelings are the same--frustration.  The experience that comes to mind first, is my three years of high school spanish.  Three whole years of spanish classes, what did I learn? Um, I don't remember.  If that answer isn't evidence of a flawed system, then what is?  When it came time for me to serve a spanish speaking mission after high school, I was hardly prepared.  After "years of studying," I was at the same level as those who had never been acquainted with the language.  What good did those three years do me?  

To say that high school spanish should cease to exist might be a little harsh but I understand where Dudamel is coming from.  I makes no sense to work at something that won't give you the results it promises.  I can relate to Dudamel because I've felt the frustration of resultless projects.  From that frustration stems an appreciation for programs that work; programs that are beneficial.  Dudamel states that the Orchestra System influences all aspects of life and literally transforms the youth that get involved.  That is a project worthy of time and energy.  Why does this all matter?  It matters because sometimes we have to reevaluate the endeavors we're involved in.  Periodically we need to redirect our focus to something that produces results.  

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