Reflection Sunday 22nd December 2024

Sunday School no: 168

Meet and Greet with Anika Singh, a social artist and the founder of VOYCE, as well as the director of DhunAnand. Anika is passionate about using art and creativity to drive social change. With over 15 years of experience, including six years with the World Health Organization (WHO) at both the Regional Office for South-East Asia and the WHO Country Office for India, as well as over four years in Australia, she has a wealth of expertise. At WHO, Anika developed and implemented engaging health promotion campaigns aimed at encouraging positive behavior change. She has also directed more than 30 advocacy productions, including animation videos, musicals, and documentaries. Before WHO, she worked in Australia mainly in the skills development and disability employment services network, assisting disadvantaged communities through employment, support services, community engagement and customised training programmes.

• 
  

  
  

  What does VOYCE do?

• Content for public health and social change to create impact.
• Work with the arts to create positive behaviour change campaigns.
• Films, advocacy videos, animation videos, musicals and ad films.
• Production of publications – including conceptualising, researching, writing, editing, designing, and printing.
• Primary and secondary level research.
• Events and festivals give an extra edge by leveraging the performing and visual arts to create impact. The company specialises in developing both online and offline events.
• Facilitating training on values in action, authentic leadership, 1-Ness consciousness, and behaviour change communication for health promotion, gender equality, and social change messaging.
• Organising staff engagement and team-building activities.
• Conceptualising and implementing campaigns to promote the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically for positive behaviour change related to health

SUMMARY ✨

With guest speaker Anika Singh, discuss oneness, love, and art for social change and reflect on gratitude and human connections.

Key Takeaways

• Oneness involves feeling connected to all living beings and the environment, transcending separateness.
• Art can be a powerful medium for social change, public health messaging, and expressing complex ideas.
• Gratitude emerges from recognising positive experiences caused by others; animals may exhibit gratitude-like behaviour.
• My Good School will evolve to focus on the "Joy Of Giving" in 2025, with upcoming events celebrating poetry, art, and music.

Topics

Anika Singh's Background and Work

Started social work at age 14 and represented India at international conferences.

Worked with WHO and UN agencies for 10+ years on public health campaigns

Founded organisation VOYCE (Vision and Opportunities for Youth and Community Empowerment)

Uses art for public health messaging and social change

Oneness and Love - 1Ness (the way VOYCE says it)

Oneness is feeling connected to all beings and nature, with no separation.

Love emerges naturally from oneness and creates a sense of belonging everywhere.

Contrasted with artificial intelligence - oneness intelligence about higher purpose and connection

Art for Social Change

An art competition was used to explain depression through various mediums (dance, sand art, music videos, etc.).

More impactful than traditional messaging for sensitive topics

Upcoming "Returning to Love" event on Jan 12, 2025, to showcase art on oneness, love, UN SDGs

Inviting submissions of visual art with 300-350 word impact stories

Behaviour Change Approaches

Changing the environment is more effective than targeting individuals

Using "nudges" - subtle environmental cues to inspire positive habits

Consistency in messaging is key

Leveraging platforms like social media, games bookmarks to reach youth

Gratitude in Animals

Difficult to definitively prove, but anecdotes suggest the possibility

Examples: Rescued whale's acrobatic display, crows bringing gifts to girl who fed them

Gratitude is defined as positive emotion from an enjoyable experience caused by others

My Good School Updates

Website upgraded for 2025 at schooleducation.com

Four focus areas: the joy of learning, happy teachers, the joy of giving, youth engaging society

Upcoming New Year's Eve reflection session

Three retreats planned for 2025 (April, November, December)

Next Steps

Submit art entries for the "Returning to Love" event by Dec 30, 2024

Prepare reflections on 2024 My Good School experiences for next Sunday's session

Consider participating in upcoming My Good School retreats and community learning initiatives

Teachers invited to volunteer for the monthly professional learning program at Arthur Foot Academy

Reflections

1. What insights did you gain about the power of art and music as tools for social change? 

2. How can you use creativity to contribute to your community or address social

    issues?

 Inner Life of Animals and the Theme  of Gratitude as presented by Peter Wohlleben:

Reflective Questions

1. Understanding Gratitude:

   • How does Peter Wohlleben describe gratitude in animals? Do you think animals experience gratitude in the same way humans do? Why or why not?

2. Examples of Animal Behavior:

   • Can you recall an example from the chapter where an animal showed gratitude? How did this behaviour reflect the concept of gratitude?

3. Human vs. Animal Emotions:

   • Do you think human emotions, such as gratitude, fundamentally differ from animals? What examples support your view?

4. Personal Reflection:

   • Have you ever experienced a moment when an animal seemed grateful to you? How did that make you feel?

Critical Thinking Questions

5. Interpreting Animal Actions:

   • Some scientists argue that behaviours we interpret as gratitude are simply survival instincts. What is your opinion on this perspective?

6. Role of Environment:

   • How might the environment or upbringing of an animal affect its ability to express emotions like gratitude?

7. Ethics and Empathy:

   • If animals can feel gratitude, what implications does this have for how humans treat them?

Creative Thinking Questions

8. Imagining a Conversation:

   • Imagine you could talk to an animal. What questions would you ask to understand how they perceive emotions like gratitude?

9. Animal Perspective:

   • Write a short story or poem from the perspective of an animal experiencing gratitude. What event triggered this feeling? How do they express it?

10. Cross-Species Relationships:

    • Design a fictional scenario where an animal and a human share a moment of gratitude. How does this moment bridge the gap between species? 

These questions will encourage you to connect the scientific observations in the chapter with your own experiences, fostering critical and empathetic understanding.

Next week -
Chapter 13: The Bathroom Outside from My Name is Cinnamon
Chapter   7:  Lies and Deception from The Inner Life of Animals

These are some suggestions you can choose from. I'm looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! 

You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in or post them as comments below!

A Melody of Reflections from Sunbeam School & Hostel Varuna

Sunbeam Varuna.pdf by Manisha Khanna

Newsletter
A beautiful collection of reflections from the students at Sunbeam School and Hostel Varuna.

Reflection Sunday 8th December 2024

 Guru Nanak Docuseries-
1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 
2. What were the key points in the episode? 
3. Wisdom, Right Knowledge, and Intellect- How can you connect with these?
4. Guru Nanak emphasized humility as the key to true wisdom. Think about a time when setting aside your ego helped you learn or understand something better. How can practising humility help you grow as a person?
5. Guru Nanak said words can bring others happiness or sadness. Can you recall a time when someone's kind words made a difference to you? How can you use your words to make people around you feel happy and supported?
6. Guru Nanak taught that the Divine exists in everything and everyone, and we are all part of one big family. How can this idea help you connect with people from different cultures, religions, or backgrounds? 
7. How can understanding this oneness improve your relationships and the way you view the world?

 From Inner Life Of Animals -

1. Did the story connect with you today, and why?
2. Find out about-
a. limbic system
b. Fear in animals 
c. A mindless animal in its true sense
3. What is instinct according to you?
4. How can we compare animal emotions with human emotions?
5. Are the animals sensitive? How are humans different from animals?

Summary

Meeting Purpose
To discuss Episode 12 of the documentary series on Guru Nanak's travels and explore the emotional lives of animals through a book chapter.

Key Takeaways

• Episode 12 covers Guru Nanak's journey to Orissa, emphasizing themes of diversity, inclusivity, and universal spirituality.
• The chapter on animal emotions presents scientific evidence that many animals likely experience emotions, challenging previous assumptions.
• Amandeep Singh emphasized the importance of shedding ego to connect with universal consciousness and energy.

Topics

Guru Nanak Documentary Series Discussion
Episode 12 covers Guru Nanak's travels to Orissa, including Cuttack and Puri.
Key themes: diversity, inclusivity, universal spirituality transcending religious boundaries
Highlighted Guru Nanak's message at Jagannath temple about respecting nature over ritualistic practices
Amandeep Singh emphasized shedding ego to connect with universal consciousness.

Inner Life of Animal Emotions Chapter Review
Scientific evidence suggests many animals likely experience emotions
Brain structures for emotions (limbic system) present in mammals, birds, and fish
Studies on pain receptors and fear responses in fish challenge previous assumptions
Debate on consciousness in animals remains open, with some evidence even in fruit flies
The slime mould example demonstrates complex problem-solving without a brain

My Good School Updates

• Sandeep Dutt outlined plans for 2025, including a focus on The Teacher's Academy and expanding partnerships.
• Commitment to maintaining an 80-20 ratio of the mainstream to supported schools in the alliance

Next Steps
Schedule dates for January episodes with Amandeep Singh
Post-reflection questions for participants to respond to
Continue monthly format with guest speakers and documentary discussions

These are some suggestions you can choose from. I'm looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections! You can email your reflections to mk@learningforward.org.in or post them as comments below!

Reflection Sunday 24th November 2024

 Sunday School No. 164

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. If he met his birth parents, how would Cinnamon feel?

6. What was driving Cinnamon's curiosity? What would you do in his place?

7. When have you ever felt excitement and fear at the same time?

8. When you feel doubt in your life, how do you deal with it?

- From The Inner Life Of Animals –

1. We aren't a part of nature, we are nature- Comment.

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

3. How would you feel if Robin was your pet?

4. Humans and Animals: their relationship

5. If you could have one animal with you forever, which animal would it be?

6. How would you like if an animal voluntarily came to live with you?

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

We want to invite interns to apply for the following positions for the year 2025:

1.⁠ ⁠My Good School Captain 

2.⁠ ⁠Podcast Station Manager

3.⁠ ⁠The Teacher’s Academy Ambassador 

4.⁠ ⁠My Good School Retreat Ambassador 

5.⁠ ⁠YouTube Channel Manager

6.⁠ ⁠Blogger Editors - two ✌️ 

7.⁠ ⁠Joy of Giving Ambassador 

Who can apply?

You are a registered intern 

Attend My Good School

You should have posted a Reflection

Do you have time to post now, too? The last date to apply is November 30th, 2024.

If needed, we will conduct a poll on 15 December 2024 for the school captain position and 

other positions.

Email your expression of interest with a short message on how you will contribute 

To LF@EBD.IN

Meeting summary for My Good School (11/24/2024) Quick recap Sandeep and Manisha discussed the upcoming workshop schedule and the importance of gratitude, while Jugjiv led a discussion about the book they were reading and the protagonist's struggles with adoption. The group also discussed various personal experiences, emotions, and thoughts, as well as the challenges and potential solutions for the lives of tribal communities in India. The conversation ended with Sandeep sharing his personal experiences with animals and introducing the concept of selective breeding, while also announcing the availability of various positions for interns at My Good School. Here are the key action items from the meeting: • All participants to read and engage with the Joy of Learning Diaries posts, including commenting and reflecting on them. • Interested students to apply for open positions at My Good School by November 30th. All participants to download and explore "The Teacher" app when it is released. • Manisha and Jugjiv to join Sandeep for TheTeacherApp release event on November 25th. • All participants to listen to the upcoming podcast with Lina Asher, to be released on Friday. • Students to write reflections on the meeting content in various formats (text, voice, video, drawing, etc.). • Students to research and reflect on topics mentioned, such as Galapagos Islands, tundra, and genetic manipulation in dog breeding. • Participants to consider applying for My Good School internships if not already registered. All participants to tune in to the upcoming Masterclass and My Good School live sessions on YouTube from Varanasi on December 14th and 15th. Summary Workshop Schedule and Book Discussion Sandeep and Manisha discussed the upcoming workshop schedule, with Sandeep clarifying that they will only conduct one workshop on the 12th, followed by a day to explore the school campus. The second day will involve Amitha conducting a session with Sandeep, and the third day will be dedicated to a master class on YouTube, which will be live-streamed to all Sunbeam branches. Sandeep also mentioned that he will be meeting Meenakshi at Khan Farm for lunch on Tuesday. Jugjiv then led a discussion about the book they were reading, focusing on the protagonist's struggles with adoption and his journey towards self-discovery. The group also discussed the importance of gratitude and the role of a psychologist in helping the protagonist. Baba's Trip and Socio Acquisition Jugjiv discussed the recap of the previous chapter as Baba's recent trip to Delhi, where he had gone for over a week. Baba returned home without immediately unpacking his baggage or sharing his trip experiences. Cinnamon, who had accompanied Baba, was disappointed as Baba usually brought back interesting items and stories from his trips. The family later discovered that Baba had been discussing something important with his wife, Ma, which led to a conversation about a report. The family also discussed the history of Socio, a homegrown fresh juice-based carbonated drink from Surat, and the recent acquisition of a 50% share in the company by Reliance. Cinnamon's Quest for Biological Parents Jugjiv discussed the desire of a character named Cinnamon to meet his biological parents. Cinnamon's father, Baba, agreed to help and they went to the Adoption Agency. They were able to contact Reshma Gawali, a local businessman who is in touch with Cinnamon's mother, Aditi Govet. However, the meeting with Aditi did not go well, as indicated by Ma's emotional state. The family's dynamics were affected by this revelation, with Ma becoming withdrawn and only coming out for chicken soup. The situation remained unresolved for several days. Exploring Characters' Emotions and Thoughts Jugjiv led a discussion about the emotions and thoughts of characters in a story. The group discussed Cinnamon's mother's concerns and her potential fear of losing Cinnamon. They also explored Cinnamon's curiosity and desire to know more about himself. The conversation touched on the challenges faced by the characters, such as the possibility of adoption and the difficulties of living in a tribal community. The group also discussed the concept of Adivasis, the original inhabitants of India, and their unique way of living in tune with nature. The conversation ended with plans to move on to the next chapter of the story. Tribal Communities, Malnutrition, and Reflections Jugjiv led a discussion about the challenges and potential solutions for the lives of tribal communities in India. The participants debated whether it's right to try and integrate these communities into mainstream society, with some arguing that they should be allowed to live their traditional way of life. The issue of malnutrition was also raised, with Jugjiv noting that India has a poor record on stunting in children. The group also shared personal experiences of using public toilets, with Sandeep praising the cleanliness of a particular facility. The conversation ended with a reflection on the joy of giving, with Sandeep suggesting a story about Solob International as a potential reflection. Balancing Excitement and Fear in Life In the meeting, Jugjiv led a discussion about the experience of excitement and fear together, using the example of a character in a story who is excited to meet his real parents but fearful of rejection. The participants shared their own experiences of feeling both excitement and fear, such as before exams or big matches. Jugjiv emphasized the importance of acknowledging and dealing with doubts, suggesting that one must have faith in oneself and take action to overcome them. The group also discussed the importance of addressing negative thoughts and the need for self-confidence. The conversation ended with a discussion about a bus toilet situation, where a woman named Ma stood up for the passengers and successfully got the toilet cleaned. Standing Up for Rights and Learning In the meeting, Jugjiv discussed an incident where he stood up for others and highlighted the importance of standing up for one's rights. He also shared a personal experience of trying to make a complaint to Amazon, which was difficult. Sandeep then emphasized the importance of reading and reflecting on the "Joy of Learning" diaries, which are shared with the group. He encouraged everyone to read and comment on the diaries, as it is an important part of the learning process. Sandeep also mentioned that the diaries can be searched by name, allowing individuals to review their own reflections. Joy of Learning Diaries Discussion Jugjiv and Sandeep discussed various posts on the Joy of Learning Diaries, particularly focusing on posts by Anjali and Nancy. They appreciated the depth and emotion conveyed in these posts, especially Anjali's "Life from the Eyes of Trees" and Nancy's "Meeting Birth Parents." Sandeep also highlighted the importance of loving books and oneself, drawing from his own experiences with raising a chick. The group also discussed the concept of love across species, with Sandeep sharing his experience of raising a chick and the strong bond that formed between them. The conversation ended with Sandeep encouraging everyone to share their bookshelves or books by their side. Animal Bonding and Internship Opportunities Sandeep shared his personal experiences with animals, highlighting the bond he formed with a stray puppy named Doggie. He also discussed the challenges of raising bottle-fed chicks and the importance of understanding animal emotions. Sandeep then introduced the concept of selective breeding and its impact on animal behavior, using the example of French Bulldogs. He also discussed the potential for animals to form voluntary relationships with humans, citing the example of a curious reindeer herd in Lapland. Sandeep concluded by announcing the availability of various positions for interns at My Good School, including School Captain, Podcast Station Manager, and Joy of Giving Ambassador. He encouraged everyone to apply and emphasized the importance of reflection and creativity in their work.

AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy.