Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[jasonlulu_2000]

I think the most valuable life skill i learned from my horse is that pressure motivates, but release teaches.

What does "pressure motivates, but release teaches" mean?

Why does the author use "but" here?

Thanks

[Philo Kevetch]

Hello Jasonlulu -

Are you learning the 'art' of 'horse whispering'?

The phrase comes from Parellis' 7 games for Natural Horsemanship and, as indicated in your quote, the lessons learned may be applied in other relationships in life (life skills).

If you are a teacher and want your student to learn....

pressure = have to

'Sit down!' 'Open your book!' 'Study hard!!' "You 'MUST' do as I tell you or you will fail!!!'

you might even use a stick to beat your student.

release = want to

understand how your student thinks / feels and what is fun / interesting for them so that they 'WANT' to learn.

"Why...'but'...?"

Try substituting 'however' for 'but' in your quote and see if you can answer your question.

Let me know what you think. Philo

[jasonlulu_2000]

thank you. Now i understand.