I’m always proud of when I can explain a complex software architecture in a manner simple for a non-programmer to understand. That is the height of understanding and the basis for creativity.
— Terry Chay, Simple prescriptions and making choices
Four years ago, I used to lecture Linux and software development courses. I loved being around smart and talented people. They force me to find new ways of explaining things, to look for analogues, and have a better understanding of the subject I’m lecturing.
My courses consisted of 3-hour lectures, 32-36 hours in total, spanning over a month. But in every course I gave, there would be one relieving moment that tells me I’m doing a good job. It’s when one of these brilliant students stands up, and in two minutes summarizes everything they learned the whole month. That’s when I feel proud.
PS. Thanks Terry, you just spurred a memory.