Whenever we see a sign on the back of a car that reads: "Student Driver," we automatically give that person more space to not be perfect.
It’s an unspoken understanding: this individual is still learning, still figuring out how to operate the bells and whistles of controlling the machine. The sign is a signal to the world, saying, “I’m trying my best—please be patient with me.”
My question is: Can I get one of those bumper stickers for my body?
I’ve been here for 50 years, and as far as I can tell, this is my first test drive at being a human. Some of you out there in the world act like you've done this before—like you’ve mastered the art of maneuvering through life—but me? I’m constantly swerving, barely staying in my lane, and I seem to honk the horn on my tongue way too often. I can’t quite figure out how to parallel park between ego and empathy either.
It’s like I have one foot on the brake of self-doubt and the other on the gas pedal of ambition, which means I’m revving my engine in the same parking lot I started in, unable to move forward.
Am I the only one? Maybe there are more people like me out there on this high-speed freeway of life, clinging to the steering wheel with white-knuckled uncertainty. What if we all admitted that we’re still trying to figure out what it means to be alive in 2024? Maybe it’s not just me. Maybe we’re all learning the rules as we go. And what if, instead of speeding past each other with impatience, we gave everyone a little more space and grace—like we would for a student driver who’s still learning the ropes? What if we offered more thumbs up to the slow movers instead of a middle finger?
Maybe if we treated each other like we’re all just learning to drive these human machines, it would change everything. Instead of honking our horns in frustration, we might remember that everyone is navigating their own challenges. We’d be less inclined to judge and more willing to offer a wave of encouragement.
After all, nobody has mastered the art of being alive—we’re all just trying to keep our hands steady on the wheel. So, let’s give ourselves—and each other—a little more room to breathe, to make mistakes, and to learn.
So, if you see me out there, just know—I’m still learning. I think I’ll wear this sign for my rump that offers:
Caution: Student Human.
Want to come write with me?
Here are some upcoming options - with some new events being added so very soon!
Online: Heart Write Soul 8 Online Writing Sessions - Dive deep into the well of your memories, dreams, and reflections to uncover the stories that have shaped you. We will meet online for 8 Wednesdays from 12-1:30 pm PT : October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, November 13, 20, and December 4. This is perfect for those that crave to make writing a practice but logistically cannot travel far from home. For more info follow this link:
HeartWrite Retreat in Tuscon! 01/13/2025 to 01/17/2025 HeartWrite is more than just a writing retreat; it’s a journey of discovery and authenticity. Whether you’re a seasoned writer of any genre/form, a storyteller at heart, or simply someone longing to connect more deeply with your own story, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to write without fear of judgment. For more information press this little button:
HeartWrite Retreat in Santa Fe. 4/28/2025-5/2/2025 My approach to writing is not about crafting a perfect narrative but offering a mirror to the soul, allowing others to see their reflections within your words. Through the art forms of writing and storyteller, this experience peels away the layers of pretense to reveal the raw, untold stories that reside within us all. Curious? Here’s the link:
The Unafraid Storyteller in ITALY 10/6/2025-10/11/2025 I have partnered with the amazing folks and Strada Tuscana to bring my “Unafraid Storyteller” retreat to EUROPE for the first time ever in 2025!
Consider joining me for a magical 5-day retreat in in the unspoiled village of Città della Pieve, in Italy This adventure will feature a chance to explore your hearts and story but also a chance to experience once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to feed your soul. There will be pasta making class, a tour of a really import archeological dig site, incredible food while building a community with a bunch of other open-hearts who are ready to learn how to embrace the epic stories that lay slumbering inside of them.
This retreat has very limited spaces available - so if you are interested, please get your deposit in quickly.
I cannot wait to meet you there! What an adventure that awaits us! For more info on the experience, including what the theme of my retreat is about, our itinerary and accommodations, please follow this link:
Of course I am open for any booking requests. Please reach out to info@johnroedel.com
And one last thing. A quick secret between the two of us. My new poetry collection “wonderache” is currently available for pre-order for your Kindle devices. The softcover format will also drop sometime in mid-October.
Check it out here:
Love this! Thank you, John.