I think people are wired differently. They can be on their 2nd violin lesson and don't hesitate to say "Listen to what I learned!". And on their 3rd lesson they are performing at the nursing home and by the 4th lesson, they are teaching - because now they know more than almost everyone because most folks can't play violin at all. It's such an innate personality characteristic. The rest of us have to learn it, lol.
There are some communities that seem more accepting and supportive than others, too. That's why I identify as a forager and not an herbalist. In my own experience, the foraging community has been more open to anyone, from any walk of life. And is more focused on a shared enthusiasm about plants, food, and fun. The herbalism community seems to have more signaling about expertise, and judgement about lifestyle and roles. I have enjoyed every foraging event I've ever been to. But I have never come away from an herbalism event feeling better.
I've struggled with my views about herbalism vs. foraging for quite awhile, to understand them better. I still haven't quite sorted it all out and maybe I never will. But there is such a difference. When it comes to plants and nature, there's more to know than any one person can learn in an entire lifetime. So everybody's learning all the time. That's what makes it so fun and interesting.
wow i feel like you and i could have a great discussion on this two communities. i love how you shared how you felt after leaving the events. i think this type of "policing of enoughness" is huge, especially in alternative communities.
this is huge ^^^ and i think really the core of the topic. another steemian shared above that whatever "level" you're at, you can always share and teach those who know less than you. i think that pressure to "be an herbalist" or "be enough" to fit in in the herbal community (which can often feel a sort of eliteness or high standards) takes away from this very basic element of being connected to the earth/plants and sharing where you're at. your violin comment (LOL!) really plays ;) a chord... in that most of us have to learn to have that level of confidence. definitely a life-long thing for me as i don't initially strike out with a lot of confidence as a teacher.... anyway, really enjoyed your comment and, as i mentioned, it'd be fun to hash this out more with you!! take care. :)