Oneness to Me - Shambhavi Nautiyal

What does oneness mean to you? What is its true meaning and why is it relevant in today's times?

Oneness means being there for each other, being each other’s guardian angel and to me, it means seeing yourself in other people and deciding your consequent course of action. Oneness is the opposite of jealousy because you can feel happy for people, which truly marks self-love. If you feel happy for others, then you will be able to feel happy for yourself. 

I’ve been tested as to whether I believe in oneness by god and now I don’t feel bad for anything that happens to me anymore because if I don’t feel bad for deprivation, discrimination and other things happening to other people, then I don’t have the right to feel bad for myself either. All I can and should do is ‘embrace’ it all. Since the past can’t be changed but can be, I choose to let go of it. 

If you want to become like Lord Buddha, you have to have a sense of oneness. Oneness is feeling others’ pain and knowing that their win is your ‘win’ too. Brotherhood and sisterhood are the actual true essence of our being. Oneness is not denying or neglecting the Truth in you, but rather unleashing it. Comparison is not the key, acceptance is. 

It’s relevant in today’s times because it helps us find our set of people, who care about us and are ready to understand us. Oneness is a motivation to uplift each other and try to do what’s meant for each other’s good on an emotional level since we come from one Source and then merge into it.

Shambhavi Nautiyal

Ahlcon Public School

Beaver Dams - Arfa Khan

Illustration- Arfa Khan 

Beavers have incisors as strong and sharp as a chisel. They gnaw the bark of a tree (most of it) while the wind helps in taking down the rest. They use the bark and stones as the base of the dam and then pile up mud and sticks to finish it off. These dams play a vital role in cooling the forest down.

Arfa Khan

Grade 9

Ahlcon Public School

Thinking hastily and thinking wisely - Nishan Karki

It is human nature to think wisely and act in an absurd fashion.

― Anatole France

There is a big difference between thinking hastily and thinking wisely. Everyone in the world has a different way of thinking. Thinking depends upon experience, state of mind, situation, education, etc.

Firstly, let's talk about thinking hastily. Thinking hastily means thinking in a hurry without being very careful. Hasty thinking is not prevalent in our daily lives. We do not tend to think in a hurry while doing our daily work. We take time to think and make desirable decisions. Hasty thinking may ruin our decisions which will hamper our daily work and routine.

However, if we are stuck in a situation where we have to make split-second decisions, hasty thinking helps a lot.

Secondly, talking about thinking wisely. Thinking wisely means taking time to think carefully and make desirable decisions. Thinking wisely is prevalent in our daily lives, business environment, family, career, etc. This type of thinking helps us a lot throughout our lives to make sound decisions, tackle challenges and head to success. It is a very essential and necessary part of our lives. 

We have to think wisely to choose our career, future and family member's welfare. Entrepreneurs also have to think wisely and make sound decisions relating to their work and business. Wise thinking also helps them to compete with other businessmen.

On comparing these two, we come to the conclusion that thinking wisely is more important than thinking hastily. Thinking wisely is prevalent in our lives but thinking hastily occurs just at some point in our lives. Thinking wisely gives us a proper result or outcome. Thinking hastily leads to unsound decisions, errors and unintended consequences.

Nishan Karki

Pestalozzi Children's Village Society

What really matters? - Rishona Chopra

“As is a tale, so is life: not how long it is, but how good it is, is what matters.”

- Seneca 

Life is a precious thing. Perhaps, one of the most precious things on Earth. But what really matters in this life? Does it matter how long we live, or how we live? It's the tough question of Quantity or Quality. What matters more? But, what is the point of a long life if that life lacks quality? Lacks happiness, peace and content? If life has quality, then no matter how short, it does leave an impression and a good one. What's the point of a long life if it's full of sorrow? 

Life is like a book. Just like in a book, its quality matters. Its humour, mystery and uniqueness matter more than how big it is. It doesn't matter if a story is long, but if it has that quality, we turn back to read it again and again. 

Ultimately, we need to ensure that we live our lives to the fullest. This world is full of risks. Our life can take unexpected turns so we must live every moment. We struggle to live with content and happiness but a simple way is to look at all the good things in life. Let's count our blessings instead of focusing on the little wrong things. 

A moment without happiness is a moment wasted. And with a precious thing as life, we really can't afford to waste any. 

Rishona Chopra 
Grade VIII 
Gyanshree School

Leader - Arfa Khan

The leader should be chosen by their intellect, not by their looks- The partridge was the smallest in size yet it was chosen as the leader.

Self-realization and Respect- The animals realized that considering themselves superior is not going to work out and decided that there should be an authoritarian figure whom they will be willing to respect. 

Mutual agreement is necessary- The animals made a collective decision to choose the leader based on who the oldest was. Mutual agreement promotes harmony, fairness, and cooperation in various aspects of life.

Importance of leadership- Leadership provides guidance, vision, and direction to individuals and maintains order. Without it, there is a possibility of mishap. A true leader will work with the people to inspire and motivate them to achieve their full potential.

Arfa Khan

Grade 9

Ahlcon Public School

Solace in Books - Ishika Shrivastava

"Books" are that one constant companion throughout the whole life and "Reading" is that one habit which brings joyous colours to your life. 

People who understand the art of reading will always find peace in it because books aren't only for reading but can also act as a safe place for many people. 

The enhancement of vocabulary and good communication skills are some of the important skills that one can have which is actually a necessity in the real world, they can also make your point of view even larger and you get to understand people and your surroundings more properly and in an adequate manner. 

With clarity in mind and diverging eyes to the sites,

there you are with a gift of seeking out the beauty in the darkest of times 

with all the prowess in your hands,

embrace the shower of familiarity that has been long forgotten.

Here I am, resting my words by resonating that reading is essential for those who seek to rise above the ordinary 

Ishika Shrivastava

Grade-12 

Sunbeam Suncity School and Hostel

True Happiness is living in the present - Rishona Chopra

We spend our time, thinking relentlessly, 

Thinking about possibilities endlessly. 

What is to come? What had happened? 

These questions cloud us day and night. 

Thinking about the future and the past, 

All about what has passed. 

In this vast world, we forget,

That we haven't touched the present yet.

All forgotten about who we are,

We start thinking of the far.

Yes, we must learn from the past, 

But not live in what has passed. 

A wise person is content with their lot, 

Not wishing for what they have not. 

Being lost in hopes and fears, 

Doing the same for years and years. 

True happiness isn't in these wishes and wants, 

Not in these useless thoughts. 

Never do we enjoy what we have,

With the future, we always began.

It's to live in the present that is the true art, 

It's what really pleases the heart. 

Rishona Chopra 

Grade VIII

Gyanshree School 

Reflection of the week - Sunday 26th May 2024

 

 ~ What does oneness mean to you? What is its true meaning, and why is it relevant today?  

 

 -From Jataka Tales-   

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?  

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?   

3. What learnings can we take away from the story "The Oldest Of The Animals"?  

4. Value of respect in our life 

5. Draw and describe a partridge. What makes it different from other birds?  

6. Why do we celebrate biodiversity day?  

7. Commanding and leadership. What's the difference?  

 

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees-   

1. What did you learn from the chapter today?  

2. What impact does this book have on you?  

3. Research on coniferous forests 

4. Relationship between weather, climate and trees 

5. Forest ecosystems and how they work 

6. Decomposition of trees 

7. What are chaffinches, and how are they nature's "weather reporters"? 

8. Research about beavers and their stories 

 

Watch the video below and share your thoughts about our Oneness Curriculum.

These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!   

   

You can email your reflections to -   

nk@learningforward.org.in

Cosmic Fireworks: The Fascinating World of Solar Flares - Yashraj Sharma

 

What are Solar Storms?

Solar storms occur when the Sun emits enormous bursts of energy through solar flares and Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs). These phenomena send a stream of electrical charges and magnetic fields toward the Earth at about 3 million miles per hour!

• What are solar flares and CMEs?

A solar flare is an intense burst of radiation caused by the release of magnetic energy associated with sunspots. It is one of the most significant explosive events in our solar system. Flares are seen as bright areas on the Sun and can last minutes to hours.

Coronal Mass Ejections are large plasma and magnetic field expulsions from the Sun's corona (outermost layer).

Effects of the Solar Storm on Earth

1. Public and amateur radio (used by citizens) is frequently disrupted. Communications, navigation, and even land surveying via land, water, and air use global positioning systems (GPS) to determine routes and locations based on satellite radio waves. These waves are disrupted and/or interrupted by the geomagnetic waves from the Sun.

2. Blackouts and power outages 

If a significant solar storm were to hit the Earth, the worst-case scenario would be the damaged power grids, resulting in blackouts. The geomagnetic currents induced by a solar storm can overload power grids and potentially cause transformers to fail, leading to widespread power outages. 

           One example of such a black is the Canadian blackout of 1989. 

This geomagnetic storm occurred on March 13, 1989. It caused a nine-hour outage of Hydro-Québec's (largest power utility in Canada and a significant player in the global hydropower industry) electricity transmission system.

The ever-so-mesmerizing ‘Northern Lights’

Earth’s magnetic field shields our planet against solar flares and CMEs. 

When a solar flare reaches Earth, as it is about to collide, it meets with the magnetic field and spirals around it. It then goes down into the poles of the Earth. This area is known as the 'Aurora Oval.' When these flares collide with the atmosphere's particles, they excite and cause them to rush. This excitement causes the particles to light up!

Hence, giving us wavy patterns and 'curtains' of light, these are commonly known as ‘Auroras’

Yashraj Sharma

Gyanshree School

X-D
Compiled from reading and sourced from references on Google Search.

Refelctions & Questions - The Doon Girls School

Jataka Tales & The Hidden Life of Trees

How can trees create their own microclimate?

The author explains that trees create leafy humus that can store moisture, and their branches can slow winds and create calmer air within the forest. Over time, these conditions reduce evaporation and create moist soil with better water storage, allowing more trees to thrive.

 by (Sanskriti- VI)

In "The Peacock Wings," what I gather is that our life choices should prioritize goodness, embracing both the flaws and beauty of others.

by (Aadya- VI)

Woody Climate Control

When the annual leaffall of beech trees occurs, it creates an alkaline humus that has the capacity to store a significant amount of water.

by (Ibadat-VI)

The Key Endeavour of Jataka Tales - Sanvi Rai

The key endeavour of the Jataka tales is to teach people the value of a good life. Every jataka tale teaches the people the values of mankind and humanity in various aspects. The message conveyed by Buddha in these tales has great significance. 

From the story “The Fowler and the Quail” we can witness the power of unity and oneness the cooperation and the strength unity lies within is remarkably evident. Yes, the story did connect me today and taught a mesmerising lesson about being in a team and we should not split into factions which must destroy that union upon which our existence hangs. 

In essence, oneness is a feeling of interconnectedness and being spiritually related to one’s soul and heart. We gain the supreme power to see tranquillity and beauty around everyone and embedded in each soul. Religion is a complex system of beliefs and practices concerning the universe's existence, nature, and purpose. It typically involves devotion to a higher power. 

Sanvi Rai
Class 9
Sunbeam School, Bhagwanpur

Spirituality- Prapti Rai

Spirituality, to me, embodies the exploration of the deeper dimensions of existence beyond the confines of the physical world. It's about seeking a connection with something greater than ourselves, whether it's through religious practices, meditation, nature, or acts of compassion and kindness.

Modern spirituality centres on the "deepest values and meanings by which people live".It often embraces the idea of an ultimate or an alleged immaterial reality. It envisions an inner path enabling a person to discover the essence of his or her being.

Not all modern notions of spirituality embrace transcendental ideas. Secular spirituality emphasizes humanistic ideas on moral character- qualities such as love, compassion, patience, tolerance, forgiveness, contentment, responsibility, harmony, and concern for others.

These aspects of life and human experience go beyond a purely materialist view of the world without necessarily accepting belief in a supernatural reality or any divine being. However, Guru Nanak's documentaries likely portray spirituality as a universal quest for meaning and transcendence, showcasing diverse perspectives and practices from around the globe.

Through storytelling and insights from various cultures and traditions, these documentaries likely illuminate the common threads that unite us in our search for purpose and understanding in the vast tapestry of existence.

Prapti Rai

Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

The Gurunanak Docuseries - Simar Kaur

The concept of oneness, often symbolized by "Ik Onkar" in Sikhism, is a profound idea that teaches us about the interconnectedness of all things in the universe. It's like recognizing that each piece of a puzzle is important because it contributes to the bigger picture. In Sikhism, this principle promotes harmony, equality, and compassion among people, regardless of their differences in religion, culture, or background. It encourages us to see beyond these surface-level distinctions and recognize the deeper unity that binds us all together.

When we watch the Guru Nanak docuseries, we can see how this principle plays out in real life. It likely shows us stories of people from different walks of life coming together, respecting each other's differences, and working towards common goals. This could be anything from helping those in need to protecting the environment. By embracing diversity and recognizing our shared humanity, we can create a world where everyone feels valued and respected.

Moreover, the practice of yoga is another way to connect with this sense of oneness. Yoga is more than just stretching and breathing exercises; it's a way to tune into our inner selves and feel connected to the world around us. When we practice yoga, we're not just doing physical movements – we're also tapping into a deeper sense of peace and harmony within ourselves. It's like a reminder that we're all part of something bigger than ourselves.

So, by embracing the concept of oneness and practising yoga, we can cultivate a greater sense of compassion, empathy, and unity in our lives. We can learn to see the beauty in our differences and work together to create a more inclusive and harmonious world for everyone.

By -Simrat Kaur

Class-9th

Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

The forge of life - Saikiran Sahu

                                                      Illustrated by Christian Espinosa

In the forge of life, we're tested, tried,

Through every hardship, we abide.

Though storms and thunder may 

rage and winds may blow,

Our strength within begins to show.

With every stumble and every fall,

We rise again; we stand tall.

Each challenge faced, each fear unchained,

Our resilience is surely gained.

From struggles faced and fights won,

Our endeavour's just begun.

With every stride, we grow stronger yet,

In the face of adversity, we'll never forget.

Because our motive is to rise, conquer, endure,

And become stronger evermore. 

                                                                                                      -Saikiran Sahu XC

Reflection of the Week - Sunday 19th May 2024

-From Jataka Tales- 

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why? 

3. What learnings can we take away from the story "The Fowler and the Quail"?

4. Co-operation and teamwork

5. Thinking hastily and thinking wisely 

6. How do the 6 's at My Good School connect with the story? 

  Hint: Critical Thinking, Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Character and Citizenship

- From The Guru Nanak docuseries- 

1. What is the need for oneness in our life?

2. The true meaning behind religion. Is philosophy religion? 

3. God and symbolism

4. The true sense of Yoga

5. What does spirituality mean to you? 

6. What did you learn from the episode today? 

7. The two perspectives of life

These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! 

You can email your reflections to - 

nk@learningforward.org.in

Watch the video of Episode 5: 

Episode 5: Tatvagyan (Essence of Knowledge): Insightful dialogues of Guru Nanak with the ‘Kanphata Jogis’, the split-eared ascetics at ‘Gorakhmatta’.

“Allegory—A Tapestry of Guru Nanak’s Travels” is a 24-episode docuseries that sequentially explores Guru Nanak’s life events to unfurl the deep imports of his messages.

https://youtu.be/p5cE1ELzre0

Importance of Indian Mythology - Tejas Kumar

Indian mythology holds immense significance not only within the cultural and religious structure of India but also globally, due to its rich varieties of stories, symbols, and archetypes. These myths, often soaked in symbolism and metaphor, serve as a fund of wisdom, offering deep insights into the human condition and the mysteries of existence. 

From the epic narratives of the Ramayana and the Mahabharata to the countless tales of gods, goddesses, and demons found in the Puranas, Indian mythology reflects the complex interaction between divinity and humanity, the eternal struggle between good and evil, and the cyclical nature of life, death, and rebirth.

Moreover, these myths not only entertain but also educate, transmitting moral values, principles, and philosophical concepts through fascinating storytelling. They provide a cultural identity to millions and encourage a sense of belonging and continuity across generations. 

Furthermore, Indian mythology continues to inspire art, literature, and popular culture, serving as an endless source of creativity and innovation. In essence, the importance of Indian mythology lies in its timeless relevance, offering deep insights into the human experience and serving as an endless source of inspiration, reflection, and spiritual growth.

Tejas Kumar 
Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Guru Nanak - Tejash

First Udasi (1499-1506)

Regions covered by the guru were Northern India and Tibet and Some of the stops he took in his journey were Haridwar, Varanasi, and Mecca. The message conveyed by him to the people was challenging ritualistic practices, emphasizing God's widespread.

Second Udasi (1506-1513)

From 1506 to 1513 he covered the whole of South India and Sri Lanka. Engaged with various religious leaders and the message given by him there advocated a balanced life of worldly engagement and spiritual devotion.

Third Udasi (1514-1518)

After that, he went to Western India, Arabia, and Persia from 1514 to 1518. He also went to Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, and Baghdad and his message outlined Stressed inner devotion over external rituals.

Fourth Udasi (1519-1521)

He also went to North India, Tibet, Himalayan regions and engaged with local spiritual leaders. And also gave a message to promote unity and devotion to one God.

Fifth Udasi (1523-1524)

His fifth udasi was from 1523 to 1524 in  Punjab and surrounding areas. Emphasizing social equality, honest living, and daily devotion to God were his teachings there.

Establishment of Kartarpur and Final Years

At last, he settled in Kartarpur (now in Pakistan). The Community life Regular hymns (kirtan), community meals (langar), and collective worship.

Legacy

Died on September 22, 1539. Teachings enshrined in the Guru Granth Sahib, promote equality, service, and devotion. Guru Nanak's journeys, known as Udasis, were instrumental in spreading his message of love, equality, and devotion, laying the foundation of Sikhism.

Tejash 

Sunbeam School

Unity is Strenghth - Chitranshi Singh

Yes, the story connected with me because there is "Unity is strength.” When there is teamwork and collaboration, wonderful things can be achieved. It has great value in all walks of life. When we are united then we can surmount any challenges and accomplish any goal. 

If we cooperate with each other, no one will be able to break us. But if we quarrel among ourselves, our enemies will take advantage of this and defeat us. 

This chapter, very beautifully, highlights the same fact likewise in this chapter, the leader of the quail told them to put their head through the net and told them to fly together with the net and go to the place which they liked.

Chitranshi Singh 

Sunbeam School, Varanasi Bhagwanpur

The Reality Of Introverts - Divyanshu Singh

The Reality Of Introverts

There are many types of people in the world, based on how they are, how they behave to others, and how they can treat each other. But, I will be talking about two very opposite sorts of personalities; Introverts and extroverts, and I will mainly stick to introverts as almost no one really knows what they want.

Extroverts often perceive introverts as arrogant, intensive, lacking opinions, shy, and not interested in talking. But in reality, they aren't like that, They don't want to socialize cause they can't handle that kind of energy, they drain their energy a lot when they socialize, and they are characterized in a way that they focus more on internal feelings than external sources of stimulation, they may like to keep their feelings with themselves and not let their emotions come out normally, some introverts can be talkative when they like the person, and share same interests these are some of the characteristics that introverts have

There are some great things about them as well like, they are the most difficult to manipulate as they don't fear aloneness and they don't chase social validation, they can balance their emotions by various methods, they are very empathetic, they are often their most creative when left alone like take an example of J.K Rowling.

It isn't that they can't be talkative, can't socialize, and are shy, it is about how everyone feels, often people don't really listen to introverts as they think they can't talk much but what if they want to talk, another example is there like people share a lot about their life to introverts and they expect for a reply, but what if they are going through their own troubles in their life, and what if the introvert wants to share their emotion but people just talk about themselves as they think that they can manage their emotions.

Divyanshu Singh

IX-D

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

Citizenship - Samriddhi Banerjee

About Citizenship 

Every person who was at the commencement of the Constitution (26 January 1950) domiciled in the territory of India, and (a) who was born in India, or (b) either of whose parents were born in India, or (c) who has been ordinarily resident in India for not less than five years, became a citizen of INDIA.

What do we mean by Citizenship? 

Citizenship is gained by meeting the legal requirements of a national, state, or local government. A nation grants certain rights and privileges to its citizens. In return, citizens are expected to obey their country's laws and defend it against its enemies. The value of citizenship varies from nation to nation.

Why is Citizenship important? 

Being a recognised citizen of a country has many legal benefits, which may include – depending on the country – the rights to vote, to hold public office, to social security, to health services, to public education, to permanent residency, to own land, or to engage in employment, amongst others.

What is Citizenship and its types?

Modern citizenship can be divided into two main categories: birthright (or jus soli) citizenship and acquired (or naturalized) citizenship. Citizenship at birth is automatically granted to those born within a particular country's border. 

Samriddhi Banerjee
Grade V
Sunbeam School, Lahartara                                                                                                                   

United we stand, divided we fall - Anmol Kashyap

“United we stand, divided we fall”

United we stand divided we fall implies that individuals who stand together are glad to accomplish any objective throughout everyday life.

However, separation can cause a great fall. Be it individual or expert, unity holds importance in each period of life.

If we work on something as a team and live in harmony with each other we shall succeed in life and if we go against each other and try to work on a task alone we are likely to fail at it.

Individuals who stand together are glad to accomplish any objective throughout everyday life. Unity is a great strength, while division always leads to defeat. If we work together we can be successful. If we fight each other we will fail.

-Anmol Kashyap

 Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Jataka Tales - Simrat Kaur

Jataka tales are a treasure trove of wisdom, comprising a vast collection of folklore and moral anecdotes originating from the Buddhist tradition. These tales are not only entertaining but also profoundly insightful, offering readers valuable lessons about life, morality, and human nature.

One of the reasons people are drawn to Jataka tales is their timeless relevance. Despite originating over two millennia ago, these stories touch upon universal themes that resonate with people of all cultures and backgrounds. Whether it's tales of kindness, compassion, greed, or folly, the characters and situations depicted in Jataka tales are relatable and offer valuable insights into the human condition.

Another aspect that makes Jataka tales compelling is their use of animal characters. By anthropomorphizing animals, these stories make complex moral concepts accessible to readers of all ages. Animals such as monkeys, elephants, and birds serve as allegorical figures, embodying virtues and vices that mirror human behaviour. Through their adventures and struggles, readers are encouraged to reflect on their own actions and choices, fostering empathy and self-awareness.

Furthermore, Jataka tales provide cultural and historical context for understanding Buddhist teachings and principles. Many of these stories are believed to have been told by the Buddha himself as part of his teachings on morality and compassion. As such, they offer valuable insights into Buddhist philosophy and ethics, illustrating concepts such as karma, rebirth, and the path to enlightenment.

Beyond their moral and philosophical significance, Jataka tales also serve as a form of entertainment. The vivid storytelling, colourful characters, and imaginative plots captivate readers, transporting them to a world filled with adventure, intrigue, and wonder. Whether it's the cunning antics of the Monkey King, the loyalty of the Bodhisattva's animal companions, or the wisdom of the talking parrot, Jataka tales never fail to engage and delight audiences.

In conclusion, people read Jataka tales for their timeless wisdom, universal appeal, cultural significance, and sheer entertainment value. These stories continue to inspire and enlighten readers of all ages, reminding us of the enduring power of storytelling to impart moral lessons and foster understanding across generations and cultures.

Simrat Kaur

Grade- 9

Sunbeam School, Bhagwanpur

Sunbeam bhagwanpur

Woody Climate Control - Prapti Rai

In a chapter titled "Woody Climate Control," you could learn about various mechanisms trees use to regulate their internal temperature and moisture levels. This might include how trees adjust their transpiration rates, control water loss through their leaves, and modulate their canopy architecture to optimize sunlight exposure and minimize overheating.

Understanding these mechanisms can provide insights into how trees adapt to different environmental conditions and how they might respond to climate change.

Adapting to a changing climate 

Plants have developed sophisticated strategic adaptations to improve their productivity and survival during climate variations.

One of these adaptations is their impressive, yet largely underappreciated ability to regulate their body temperature, a process known as thermoregulation, achieved through anatomical and physiological mechanisms in their leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits.

Thermoregulation is crucial for plants’ survival as it plays a fundamental role in their general growth and the development of embryos, floral scent, and seed viability, amongst other known and still unknown factors.

However, their ability to successfully survive in the face of climate change is a matter of growing concern since any alteration to the complex processes of growth, maturation, reproduction and survival could result in the unfortunate decline of plant populations.

Prapti Rai

Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Education Vs Skills - Animesh Kashyap

Skills encompass practical abilities acquired through training and practice, enabling individuals to perform specific tasks efficiently. Education, on the other hand, typically refers to the formal learning process within academic institutions. Both have unique roles to play in personal and professional development.

The Traditional Education Pattern
Historically, formal education was admired as the primary gateway to success. A college degree stands for knowledge and qualification, opening doors to desired careers. However, the landscape is shifting.

The Value of Acquiring Skills
Skills are the building blocks of innovation and productivity. The ability to code, design, write, or communicate effectively holds huge value in today's workforce. They are often the differentiators that set individuals apart.

The Role of Formal Education in Skill Development
Education doesn't necessarily exclude skill development. Many educational programs now include practical skill-building components, creating a bridge between theory and application.

Conclusion
In the skill vs. education debate, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right path depends on individual goals, industries, and circumstances. However, it is clear that in today's dynamic world, a willingness to learn, adapt, and acquire relevant skills is essential for long-term success.

By Animesh Kashyap

Grade-IX

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

The Strength In Scars - Tejas Kumar

Humans never escape from their wounds. Their wounds can later be a thing with immense potential. Scars can make us stronger than ever. The world is going to give you beauty but pain as well. It is difficult to move on, it breaks you down in ways you never expected to be broken. 

But when you are broken, don't feel left over instead recall your memories, look at the sacrifice, and create yourself again but this time more stronger and more compassionate.
Find more scars that life has left for you to be stronger and stronger.

Be THANKFUL for everything you get in your life.

Inspired from:-Wikipedia and The book 'THE STRENGTH IN OUR SCARS' by Bianca Sparacino


Tejas Kumar
Grade-IX
Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Significance of trees in our life - Prashant Singh Kushwaha

We can see trees everywhere on this earth in our surroundings. Trees are the beauty of nature. In my opinion, Without trees life is not possible on this earth. Trees fulfil our basic needs.

In ancient times trees were everything for humans. Trees provide us with oxygen which we inhale to survive. We can say that trees are responsible for our beautiful nature.

Today our environment is highly polluted because humans get greedy and cut trees for their requirements. It may cause global warming and then it will become more dangerous to live in such a polluted environment. 

Trees maintain the temperature of our environment for example- if you are in the city you can feel that the environment is too hot because there are only a few trees left in the city. It is because humans cut all the trees to make buildings and roads; On the other hand, if you are in a forest or a rural area, you can feel that the environment is too cold because of trees. If you live in a village or near the forest you can observe that the air is too cold compared to the city. 

Do you know that it is a fact that A quarter of ingredients in modern medicines come from rainforest plants?

Prashant Singh Kushwaha

Grade IX

Sunbeam School Lahartara 

Trees as Best Friends - Anmol Kashyap

Trees as Best Friends

We cannot survive in this world without our friends. Similarly, it is impossible to survive on this land without trees.

Trees give us everything for the survival of living beings. Still, we humans, who are considered the most intelligent beings on this earth, give several threats (such as deforestation) to the base of our life (trees) only.

So, we humans should be grateful for being the friends of the trees, and practice things (such as afforestation and reforestation) to increase their population and equally respect and consider them also as citizens of our country.

Anmol

Grade IX

Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Success - Tejash Kumar

Success is the state or condition of meeting a defined range of expectations. It may be viewed as the opposite of failure.

1. Build a growth mindset- That means we have to focus on the goals that we have to achieve or we can make a "TO DO LIST" for the day or a week and achieve the goals that are set.

2. Strengthen your willpower- Things you can do to boost your willpower by
rewarding the effort that is done by you, believing in yourself, making a routine for the day, clarify your goals.

3. Set achievable goals-You can break your goals down, and always connect your goals to a 'why and what' by asking questions. Don't think about past failures.

4. Cultivate strong social support- Be a good listener and allow your friends to confide freely and without being judged. Accept their help. Some people find it hard to accept support, preferring to be the one always offering it instead.

Tejash Kumar

Grade IX

Sunbeam School

The Beauty Of Nature- Divyanshu Singh

We often neglect nature because we are so glued to the screens we have on our phones. We always take pictures of beautiful terrain thinking it will always be with us, but we ignore reality and stick to materialistic things. 

In actuality, nature is so beautiful that you may never want to see anything else other than nature. The earth is filled with glorious and magnificent wonders made by humans but there are also wonders of nature like the Great Barrier Reef having up to 2,900 reefs and is the largest coral reef system in the world, We also have the Aurora Borealis which is commonly known as the northern lights have captivated the society with its admirable dancing ribbons, and there are many more glorious wonders of nature hidden within the world but we being so addicted to our materialistic things fail to look after the nature and we just forget there is such a thing called nature.

So please I request to everyone that don't miss out on such beautiful sceneries. We all are living to enjoy nature not to destroy it. Everyone has the right to enjoy it if you don't want to enjoy the beauty of nature then let others enjoy it with peace. Finally, I would like to say "A walk in nature can give you way more than what you desire".

Divyanshu Singh

Grade- IX

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

Behaving Good All The Time - Ankit Raj

Why do we not behave "good" all the time?

Human behaviour isn't always consistently good due to various factors. Firstly, humans are complex, with emotions and experiences that can influence behaviour. 

Mistakes and imperfections are natural to being humans, leading to occasional lapses in good behaviour. External influences, like societal pressures or self-interest, can also sway behaviour away from what is considered good. 

Additionally, a lack of awareness or understanding of consequences may lead to unintentional harm. Despite these challenges, individuals can strive to improve through empathy, self-awareness, and understanding.

Ankit Raj 

Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Being Humble - Shaurya Chaturvedi

Being Humble

Are we humble? That's the first question I want to ask today and the second is does being humble cost something? 

The answer from my perspective is that we are not humble. In this modern world, we have forgotten the norms of humanity. We are just frustrated with our problems because that humbleness is miles away from us. 

Just recap your memory, someday you have also done it when you were coming back home after a hectic day and your sibling or your mother asked you something and you got furious and then gave a very rude answer, now switch the characters- you are the sibling and you got a rude answer. just imagine how bad you will feel. So in conclusion, I want to say that being humble costs nothing, but eventually, it makes people feel good and more emotionally connected to you.

Shaurya Chaturvedi

Grade IX

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

People Should Value A Good Life - Shubhangi Kashyap

What is a good life?

It is more than just the accumulation of possessions or the attainment of fleeting pleasures, the good life is a tapestry woven from the threads of happiness, fulfilment and purpose. It’s about cherishing the simple joys that enrich our days and nourish our souls. 

The good life is not a destination, but a journey ...

A journey of discovery and growth…

“In life’s sweet dance, we find our song,

Each moment fleeting, yet ever strong,

Cherish the joy, embrace the strife,

For in the good life, we find true life…” 

 

Shubhangi Kashyap 

Grade- 9

Sunbeam School, Lahartara