Reflection Sunday 10th November 2024

Reflection of the week 

-From My Name Is Cinnamon- 

1. What was your takeaway from the session today?  

2. What were the key points in the chapter? 

3. Journey of self-discovery

4. Being honest with ourselves

5. Importance of reflection and clear thought 

6. When you write a poem how do you feel? 

7. How do you think Cinnamon would feel if he met his birth parents

8. Between the head and the heart

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees –  

1. Why is the chapter named "Not just a commodity?"

2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 

3. What did you learn from this book?

4. Do trees have a life of their own? How can humans learn to respect that? 

5. Life from the eyes of trees

6. Taking care of trees and nature with dignity

7. We aren't a part of nature, we are nature

8. Lessons from this book

"I think writing a poem is oddly fulfilling and a unique art itself. Its unique how we're able to express our thoughts about something in a set of lines. I think it brings us to think deeper about what we're writing because we aren't just writing a paragraph but writing about our feelings and ideas about something in a few lines, choosing the right words at every step. And when you're done writing that poem, there's a sense of fulfillment when you read it again because it just opens a new perspective about it. 

I don't write blogs that often now but when I'm bored at home, I take out a paper and pen and write poems because it truly is something that's so unique." - Rishona Chopra

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

      

You can email your reflections at -      

mk@learningforward.org.in

My Good School 10th Nov 2024

Reading My Name Is Cinnamon - complete the chapter 8; and complete reading the book "The Hidden Life of Trees" by Peter Wohlleben, as well as plan for an upcoming retreat and initiate an "Impact Study" project.

Key Takeaways

• Trees are highly interconnected through underground fungal networks, forming a "Wood-Wide Web" that allows them to communicate and support each other. 

• Helping children like Cinnamon from the book deal with difficult emotions requires providing a supportive environment, encouraging reflection, and engaging them in enjoyable activities. 

• The upcoming retreat will involve spending time in a forest, connecting with underprivileged children, and continuing the group reading experience. 

• The "Impact Study" project aims to assess how the Teacher's Academy program is developing students' 21st century skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. 

• Practices like writing poems, maintaining reading logs, and reflecting on readings can enhance personal growth and reading comprehension. 

Topics

Reading and Discussing "The Hidden Life of Trees"

• The group continued reading and discussing chapters from the book, exploring how trees communicate and support each other through underground fungal networks. 

• The discussion focused on understanding Cinnamon's emotional journey and ways to help him deal with his feelings in a healthy manner. 

Upcoming Retreat

• The group discussed the plans for an upcoming retreat, where participants will spend time in a forest, connect with underprivileged children, and continue their group reading experience. 

• The retreat will also involve a visit to the "My Good School" studio and a city tour. 

"Impact Study" Project

• The group initiated an "Impact Study" project to assess the impact of the Teacher's Academy program on the development of students' 21st century skills. 

• The project will involve gathering feedback from teachers and students, and analyzing data to understand the program's effectiveness.

 

Next Steps

• Gurdeep will connect with Kunal to obtain the data from the previous impact study and use it as a starting point for the new project. 

• The group will work together to develop a set of questions to gather feedback from teachers and students on a monthly basis. 

• The findings from the impact study will be shared and discussed in future meetings, and the next meeting will be on the 24th of November 2024.

Reflections Sunday The 20th October

Sunday School No. 159

- From My Name Is Cinnamon- 1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 2. What were the key points in the chapter? 3. Life In Kolkata 4. When have you ever "hidden" something from your elders? What are the things you don't tell them and why? 5. Importance of reflection and clear thoughts. 6. Write about Kolkata trams. 7. Why does the sun rise earlier in Kolkata? 8. What museums have you visited? 9. What does self-reflection mean to you? - From The Hidden Life Of Trees – 1. Why is the world full of color? 2. What is your takeaway from today’s session? 3. How does every material absorb light? 4. Why do you feel relaxed and peaceful in forests and nature? 5. Mechanism of a "sunblock" 6. What would happen if the leaves of trees were black? "The forest is transfused with a subdued green light that just happens to have a relaxing effect on the human psyche." These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!

You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in

Key Highlights of the Session:

    

         Book Reading Activity:

• The session began with the reading of selected books, aimed at developing students' reading habits, and comprehension skills, and fostering a love for literature. Students actively participated in the discussion around the stories, highlighting important life lessons and moral values.

• This activity helped students improve their critical thinking and encouraged them to draw connections between the stories and their personal experiences.

• Discussion on Note-Taking vs. Reflection:

• A significant part of the session was dedicated to explaining the difference between note-taking and reflection:

• Note-taking was described as the process of jotting down important information during a lesson or reading, capturing facts and key points.

• Reflection was presented as a deeper process where students look back at what they have learned, think critically, and form personal insights. Reflection helps in solidifying knowledge and fostering self-awareness.

• Students and teachers were encouraged to balance both practices, as note-taking ensures accuracy, while reflection promotes meaningful learning.

• Retreat Plan and Registration:

• The session also covered important details regarding the upcoming Retreat Plan. The retreat is designed to promote personal growth, collaboration, and self-reflection for students and staff alike.

• The reasons for joining the retreat were discussed, emphasizing the benefits of stepping outside the regular school routine to engage in fun, educational activities that promote teamwork, leadership, and creative problem-solving.

• The last date for retreat registration was announced as 30th October, and students were reminded to complete the registration process before the deadline.

Conclusion:
The Sunday School Reading Session was a successful blend of reading, critical discussion, and important announcements. By engaging in book reading and understanding the importance of both note-taking and reflection, students are better equipped to process and retain information in a meaningful way. The session also served as an excellent platform to brief parents and students on the upcoming retreat and its potential benefits.
 
Next Steps:

• Students were reminded to complete the retreat registration by 30th October.

• Students are encouraged to continue practicing both note-taking and reflective learning in their day-to-day studies.

Reflections for the week - Sunday 4th August 2024

GSA Members are attending the Global Ed Fest

- From My Guide Inside- 

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. Life is a figment of your imagination. 

3. I used to believe; now I am...

4. Reflect on this quote: "You have the gift of thought to use as you choose. Imagine that!"

      -Describe something you remember making up. Use these sentence starters: 

5. I used to believe… But, now I understand…

Note: MGI Online is a school well-being curriculum which aligns with, for example, Life Skills classes

- From Jataka Tales -     

1. Find out about Jetavana.

2. What are the three calamities of your life? How will you help yourself?

3. Which dream of yours did not let you sleep?

4. What lessons can we take away from the story today?  

5. What does it feel like when your dreams come true?

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees – 

1. Find out about anemones.

2. What is your takeaway from today's session?

3. Why is there a battle for every light of sunshine in the forest?

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

You can email your reflections to - mk@learningforward.org.in
Feel free to call Ma'am Manisha Khanna for help, you fill find the number on the top right of the page.

Reflection of the week – Sunday, 28th July 2024

- From Jataka Tales - 

1. Significance of Guru Purnima

2. Why do you believe having relationships gives you security in life?

3. Research on Silk cotton Trees.

4. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

5. What does it feel like to be covered and protected?

6. What is the value of a brother in one's life?

- From Hidden Life Of Trees -     

1. What do you understand by "The Sick Tree"?

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

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. Find out about- Phytoncides

5. Where is Leningrad? 

6. How can Lametta be useful during Christmas?

7. Who are comrades in the chapter, and how do comrades help you? 

These are some suggestions. We look forward to your excellent and thoughtful reflections, which you can email to mk@learningforward.org.in.

Think it over
Based on the discussion, we must answer the question, " Why do children disrupt classes?"

Smart Summary

The conversation revolved around various themes, including the importance of brotherhood, navigating the digital age, inner strength, and three defence mechanisms. 

Speakers emphasized the need for respect, order, and education in society and the importance of utilizing digital power responsibly and ethically. 

We discussed trees' resilience and vulnerability to environmental changes and injuries, highlighting their adaptability and potential to heal sicknesses.

The conversation covered various topics and perspectives, focusing on the importance of inner strength, education, and responsible technology use.

12.00 pm
Interns Meeting: Form groups to work on four projects - Blogs, Podcasts, newsletters and Fundraising.

From the Jatakas discussed, we can take the following key lessons:

• The value of brotherhood and relationships, as seen in the woman's choice to save her brother over her husband or son

• The importance of compassion and treating all beings, even animals, with respect, as demonstrated by the Bodhisattva who saved the prince, snake, rat, and parrot

• The dangers of ingratitude and selfishness, as shown by the ungrateful prince who plotted against his benefactor

• The need to balance growth and defence, as trees must do to maintain their health and longevity

We can cultivate a more harmonious and just society by applying these lessons of brotherhood, compassion, and respect for all life.

Food For Thought

To continue encouraging thoughtful reflection and knowledge sharing in future sessions, we can:

• Provide more opportunities for participants to share their personal reflections and insights on the stories and lessons discussed

• Encourage participants to make connections between the stories and their own lives or experiences

• Facilitate discussions that allow participants to explore different perspectives and deepen their understanding

• Incorporate more interactive activities like group discussions or creative projects to engage participants and foster collaborative learning

• Invite participants to bring their books, poems, or other materials to share with the group.

• Emphasize the importance of active listening and respectful dialogue to create a safe and inclusive knowledge-sharing environment

By focusing on these strategies, we can continue cultivating a culture of thoughtful reflection and meaningful knowledge exchange in future sessions. YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@mygoodschool

Reflection of the week - Sunday 14th July 2024

Agochar (Seeing the Unseen): At the confluence of the seen and unseen waters, Guru Nanak, the discerning motivator, inspires to connect with the invisible flow within. "Allegory - A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels", a 24-episode docuseries, sequentially explores Guru Nanak's life events to unfurl the deep imports of his messages. This docuseries is filmed at over 150 multifaith sites in 9 countries. 

Notes courtesy Otter AI:
The conversation delved into Guru Nanak's life, teachings, and impact, exploring his philosophy and how it has been interpreted and accepted by different faith groups. Speakers also discussed Guru Nanak's spiritual journey, including his visit to Nizamabad and Allahabad and the significance of the Gagra River. Additionally, they shared insights on the path to spiritual growth and self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of being a learner at every moment.

Bhagat Kabir's philosophy of questioning societal norms can be applied to modern issues in several ways:

1. Challenge rigid thinking: Like Kabir challenged superstitions, we can question outdated beliefs and practices that no longer serve society.

2. Promote inclusivity: Kabir's message transcended caste and religious boundaries. We can apply this to fight discrimination and promote equality.

3. Simplify life: Kabir advocated for simple living. In modern society, we can question consumerism and materialism.

4. Seek inner wisdom: Kabir emphasized looking within for truth. We can encourage critical thinking and self-reflection instead of blindly following societal expectations.

5. Use creative expression: Kabir's poetic style made complex ideas accessible. We can creatively use art, music, and literature to address social issues.

6. Embrace diversity: Kabir's teachings were adopted by various communities. We can celebrate diversity and promote cultural understanding.

7. Question authority: Kabir challenged religious orthodoxy. We can encourage questioning of power structures and promote accountability.

8. Focus on essence over form: Kabir emphasized spirituality over rituals. We can prioritize core values and principles over superficial practices in various aspects of life.

By applying these principles, we can address modern issues like social inequality, environmental concerns, and political polarization with a fresh, critical perspective.

Some key takeaways from Guru Nanak's teachings about achieving spiritual growth include:

• Focus on inner transformation: Guru Nanak emphasised orienting oneself internally rather than relying on external rituals or formalities.
• Practice equipoise: Tranquility can be achieved by maintaining a balanced mind in all situations.
• Overcome inner obstacles: Guru Nanak taught that shackles of lust, anger, greed, attachment and ego are barriers to attaining peace of mind and experiencing bliss.
• Live simply: Guru Nanak emphasized the importance of simple living and evolving through proper actions.
• Cultivate noble intentions: Our intentions shape our destiny, with noble intentions leading to peace and lowly intentions to distress.
• Seek experiential wisdom: Guru Nanak valued direct spiritual experience over blind adherence to religious customs or self-affliction.
• Recognize the divine within: He taught that God is within us, and we should look inward to connect with the divine.
• Embrace oneness: Guru Nanak promoted the unity and oneness of all creation, transcending religious and social boundaries.
• Be a lifelong learner: He encouraged maintaining a mindset of continuous learning and growth throughout life.
• Practice remembrance: Regular meditation and remembrance of the divine facilitates the union of the mind with consciousness.
• In the second part of the session, we touched upon trees' remarkable intelligence and adaptability, highlighting their unique sensory perception and ability to respond to changing seasons.

- From Guru Nanak Docuseries- 

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. What did you learn from the episode, and does it relate to you in any way?

3. Rules and norms

4. Kabir and Guru Nanak. Are there any dohas that are close to your heart?

5. Rationality and common sense in the society

6. Where is this oneness lost today? 

-From Hidden Life Of Trees-     

1. Why do we read about trees in the first place?   

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

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. Which part is known as the brain of the tree?

5. How do forests grow and connect with external factors?

 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. For any assistance, please feel to WhatsApp or Telegram us at +919811133900 (no phone calls)

Action Item

1. Schedule the next screening date in August. Rishona will follow up with Amardeep.
2. Participants should research Kabir's teachings, especially his Dohas.
3. Read the assigned chapter from "The Hidden Life of Trees" and discuss.
4. Publish a blog post reflecting on the discussion points from the episode.
5. Share the reflection blog post on various online platforms once published.

Reflection of the week - Sunday 22nd June 2024

 

-From Jataka Tales-   

1. What insights do the Jataka Tales offer?

2. How does today's story resonate with your current life experiences?

3. What lessons can be learned from "The Foolish Friend"?

4. What led to the son's drastic action towards his father?

5. Have you ever played darts, or are you familiar with the game?

6. Do you agree that a sensible enemy is preferable to a foolish friend? Why or why not?

7. Do you typically think before you act? Why is this important?

8. In what ways were the GNATs effective, and what roles did they play in wars?

9. What are some of the critical aircraft used by the Indian Air Force?

10. Can you draw an aircraft and describe its features?

11. What moral lessons can we derive from "The Stupid Monkey"?

12. Who is responsible for the destruction in the garden?

13. What key points should be considered when delegating tasks?

14. What are some interesting facts about gardening, and how would you manage a garden to prevent damage by animals like monkeys?

15. What insights can be gained from the story "The Robbers and Treasures"?

16. What is the reason the Despatchers create such a pattern to get money

  

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees-   

1. What insights did you gain from today's chapter?

2. How has this book influenced your thoughts or perspective?

3. What is a bumblebee and its role in the ecosystem?

4. How do humans rely on trees and forests for their well-being?

5. Observe a tree nearby and describe its characteristics.

6. What is an armada, and how does it contribute to the health of forests?

7. In what ways can a dead tree benefit the ecosystem?

8. Listen to a song by Peter Maffay and reflect on how its themes connect with the chapter. https://youtu.be/LtQTSWpxmjo?si=PDQnjLCKxIpg63lh (Peter Maffay - So bist du 1979 - song in German) And when I go, only a part of me is gone.

Do visit Our Youtube Channel https://youtube.com/@MyGoodSchool 

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

Reflection of the week - Sunday 9th June 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 from the story "The Haughty Slave"? 

4. Why is the chapter's name "Haughty Slave"? 

5. Have you ever called anyone "haughty " and why? 

6. No one is superior or inferior 

7. What does "insolence" mean? 

 - 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. Importance of Fungi and their significance 

4. The role birds play in Nature 

5. Why is a woodpecker called a "subletter"?  

6. Experiments with Nature 

7. The language of trees 

8. Interdependence in Nature 

9. What does the poem "Laburnum Top" express? 

10. What role do beetles play in Nature?  

11. Why is the chapter named "Community Housing Projects"? 

The Laburnum Top
https://www.ssgopalganj.in/online/Class%20XI/Eng/Hornbill/ch9.pdf 

The Good Schools India Journal: https://www.gsi.in/ 

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

You can email your reflections to -    

Rishona at 19392@gyanshree.in 

Saikiran at saikiran17112008@gmail.com

Reflection of the week - Sunday 21st April 2024

- From Jataka Tales - 

1. Which language were Jataka Tales written in? When were they written?

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

3. What learnings can we take away from the story "King Makhadevas Grey Hairs "?

4. What are the things one aims for in life?

5. What learnings can we take away from the story "The Cold Half Of The Month "?

- From The Hidden Life Of Trees - 

1. What is Gulliver in Lilliput about?

2. What can we learn from the "Tree or Not Tree" chapter?

3. What is coppicing?

4. How is Trees' age measured?

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. Feel free to call Neetu, Monday to Friday, 10 am to 7 pm, +91 135 2710958

Purpose to live - Pasang Sherpa

Like precious metals, gold and silver have a purpose, which is to satisfy people's desire for luxury. Our lives too have a purpose, but it is hidden. We can find it only if we have a hobby. Having a hobby means that we are one step ahead of finding our purpose in life. And if we are very much into our hobby, then that is the time when we change our hobby into a passion. Passion acts as a medium to sustain life; without it, our lives are futile.

Pasang Sherpa

Pestalozzi Children's Village Society

Image Courtesy- @syifatemplate