Sunbeam School Reflections - Sunday 24th November 2024

 

My Name is Cinnamon 

In 'My Name is Cinnamon' by Vikas Prakash Joshi, Cinnamon’s feelings upon meeting his birth parents would likely be a complex blend of emotions. As an adopted child who has grown up in a loving home, his identity and sense of belonging are deeply rooted in his adoptive family. However, meeting his birth parents could spark curiosity, excitement, and perhaps even anxiety or confusion.

Cinnamon might feel a sense of gratitude for the life that he’s been given, but he also requires a need for closure or understanding about why he was given up for adoption. He could struggle to reconcile his current identity with this new connection to his origins. Depending on the circumstances of the meeting and his birth parents’ story, he might experience empathy, forgiveness or even sadness.

Name- Simrat Kaur 

Grade - 9th 

Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur 

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

The phrase 'we aren't a part of nature, we are nature' suggests a rethinking of our relationship with the natural world. At its core, this statement challenges the conventional view that humans are separate from or somehow above, the environment and all its components. Instead, it emphasizes our intrinsic connection to the planet and the ecosystems around us. 
Human Origins: Humans have evolved over millions of years alongside other species. Our biological makeup is a product of the Earth’s ecological systems. Our ancestors lived in harmony with nature, relying on it for food, shelter, and community. This deep-rooted connection means that we are fundamentally a part of the Earth's biological fabric.
Interconnectedness: Every element of nature is interconnected—plants, animals, water, air and soil all depend on each other for survival. Humans, as one species within this vast system are equally part of this web of life.

Name- Sanvi Rai

Sunbeam Hostel, Bhagwanpur.

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.

Colors In Nature - Simrat Kaur

Colours in nature often serve specific functions that have evolved. For example, the vibrant colours of flowers attract pollinators such as bees, birds, and butterflies, ensuring the reproductive success of plant species. Similarly, some trees change colour in autumn as part of a process that helps them conserve energy for the winter months. Trees and plants may use colour to signal various states or conditions. For example, the changing colours of leaves can indicate nutrient shifts within the tree or environmental changes. 

Wohlleben discusses how trees "communicate" with each other through their root systems and even via their outward appearance, like changing leaf colour in response to stress. Colours can also serve as a means of protection. For example, certain trees and plants have evolved colours that help them blend into their environment, avoiding herbivores. Conversely, bright colours in some plants may warn potential predators that they are toxic or inedible. 

The book's broader message is that colours are not merely aesthetic but have evolved to fulfil ecological functions that maintain the balance and harmony of nature. The natural world's vibrancy reflects life's complexity and the interdependence of all living things.

Simrat Kaur
Class 9th
Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur

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.

The Inner Life Of Animals

Reading for The Retreat 2024

Hi, Iʼm reading this book and wanted to share this quote with you. "Our dog Barry was a little wimp. As I have mentioned, before he came to us, he had already been passed along by a number of different owners. For the rest of his life he was scared of being abandoned, and he always got extremely worked up when he was taken along while we visited friends. If you are a dog, how are you supposed to know whether you’re going to be handed away yet again? He showed his nervousness by panting non-stop, so we finally gave up, leaving the distressed animal alone in the house for a couple of hours instead. When we got back, it was easy to see that Barry was relaxed. He became deaf in his old age and couldn’t hear us arrive, sleeping soundly until he blinked up at us when he felt the wooden floorboards vibrate under our feet. So Barry is an example of an animal that lacks courage, but we want to take a look at the opposite trait, and to do that, let’s step out into the woods." (from "The Inner Life of Animals: Surprising Observations of a Hidden World" by Peter Wohlleben) 

Start reading it for free: https://read.amazon.in/kp/kshare?asin=B01N9YNANU&id=7hayxowfs5a65ereaqlapm6sje 

-------------- 

Read on the go for free - download Kindle for Android, iOS, PC, Mac, and more http://amzn.to/1r0LubW

Reflection of the week - Sunday 7th July 2024

Listen to the Podcast on YouTube

- From My Guide Inside -   

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. What would you call your My Guide Inside? 

3. How does your My Guide Inside help you? 

4. Share your thoughts and feelings. Show insight and connections to this quote from My Guide Inside (Book II) Chapter One:

    My guide inside of wisdom is "powerful knowledge." Wisdom will "grow with you and guide you."

- 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 today?   

4. How do parents name their children?

5. Where is Takksila located? What is its significance?

6. What is righteousness?

7. Moral Integrity

8. How would you tackle the problem if you were in the Bodhisattva's place? 

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

SUMMARY

The speakers emphasised the significance of education and self-discovery, sharing personal experiences and insights on inner wisdom, thought labelling, and the connection between thoughts and feelings. They discussed the intersection of Yoga and AI, the importance of personal experience and self-denial in storytelling and the path to enlightenment. The speakers highlighted the importance of embracing simplicity, compassion, and wisdom in making good choices and guiding us through life.

12.00 PM
We decided not to read the chapter from The Hidden Life of Trees and instead hosted an Open House to meet Ms Manish Khanna and discuss how we could better engage with Fellows and Interns. Kunal shared an update about the Impact Study, and we discussed how we could improve our program on Sunday and engage with a wider audience.

Reflection for the week - Sunday 30th 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 "Great King Goodness"?

4. What are commandments, and what are the 10 of them?

5. Learn more about the 10 commandments and their meaning to you.

6. find about 10 precepts and whom it is connected to?

7. Find out about Kosala and what comes to your mind when you hear it?

8. Why did the King of Benaras keep not fighting against the Kosala Kingdom?

9. Was the decision not to fight right by the king of Benaras?

10. Is doing good never wasted?

11. What moral lessons can we derive from "Great King Goodness"?

12. What are Goblins? Draw a Goblin by imagination.

-  From The Hidden Life Of Trees-   

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

2. How has this book influenced your thoughts or perspective about trees and their life?

3. How a tree is a giving, living Being?

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

5. Observe a tree nearby and describe its characteristics.

6. How is a forest different in summer from other seasons?

7. Find Out about carotene?

8. How do summers bring change in the forest trees?

9. Why are Celcius and Fahrenheit different?

10. Why do you think Trees Hibernate and slow down?

Check the July calendar, find your interests, and join us. https://www.joyoflearningdiaries.com/2024/06/mgs-calendar-july-2024.html

Link to the My Good School Telegram Workgroup: https://t.me/+mgyMC5zqTfo4MGU1

These are some suggestions you may choose from; you are most welcome to share and post whatever comes to your mind as your thoughts. We are looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!   

   

You can email your reflections to Neetu at <nk@learningforward.org.in> or call her at +91 135 2710958 for assistance Monday through Friday, 10 am to 7 pm.

SUMMARY by Otter AI
The conversation revolved around various topics, including improving school management through effective communication, fostering a collaborative learning environment, and discussing religious and cultural stories. Participants discussed the adaptations of trees during winter, highlighting their unique strategies for survival. The conversation covered a wide range of subjects, showcasing the speakers' diverse perspectives and ideas.

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

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 

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

The Hidden Life of Trees - The Doon Girls School Reflections

Carbon Dioxide Vacuums

"This chapter is taken from The Hidden Life of Trees. It's based on the pollution of the area because of the trees being deforested. And this chapter also teaches us how carbon dioxide  is valuable for trees and plants." (Tamreen - IX)

Plant Based Facts

• Most trees grow in swamps.
• The coal is hardly being formed because forests are constantly being cleared.
• Carbon dioxide is the favourite food of plants.
• There are 700,000 trees on every continent in the world. (Sumya Jha - VIII)

Why should we save trees? - Ankit Raj

Saving trees is crucial for numerous reasons. Firstly, trees play a vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem by absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen, which is essential for all life forms. 

Additionally, trees provide habitat for countless species of plants and animals, contributing to biodiversity. Moreover, they help regulate climate, prevent soil erosion, and provide numerous resources such as wood, fruits, and medicines, making them indispensable for human survival and well-being. 

Preserving trees is not just an environmental concern but a necessity for the health of the planet and future generations.

Ankit Raj

   Sunbeam School, Lahartara 

Water: A Precious Resource - Rishona Chopra

The most precious thing on Earth,

One which has priceless worth.

The very thing because of which everything survives,

Without it, we won't stay alive,

Nature would die,

At the mere sight of it, one could cry.

No life on this precious planet of ours,

No PLAN B to save us from the tough hours.

If that one precious thing was gone,

We wouldn’t live to see the dawn.

The oceans would die,

The birds wouldn’t fly.

No resources in our life,

Because without water, how would we survive?

Rishona Chopra

Grade VIII

Gyanshree School

Questions I ask - Rishona Chopra

Photo from https://www.peakpx.com
Nature is so perfect, But why are we so wrecked? Why are we with flaws? Why do humans have the habit of going against the laws? Why aren’t all of us patient and kind? Pure and with a clean mind.

Why do people steal?
Why do people not feel?
Why do we lie and cheat?
Why are people poor and on the street?

When I ask these questions, I realize,
I don't have to look for the answer up in the skies.
The answer is within me,
I am the holder of the key.

God is the fuel of the car,
Helps the car move like a bright star.
But it's the driver’s fault that the car has met an accident,
The fuel isn’t responsible for the mistakes and accidents.

God has given us this body and mind,
Given endless freedom to humankind.
Gave us materials so we have enough food,
But we’re the ones who wrongly viewed.
We made alcohol and tobacco,
We blamed god for our troubles although,
We were the ones to blame,
We were lost in making money and fame.

God gave us the mind,
We had an option to be kind.
But we’re the ones who made the other choice.
And lost the pureness in our voice.

Rishona Chopra

Gyanshree School

Grade VIII

The Marvellous Tree - Pallavi Kumari

https://www.toppr.com/, used by Pallavi Kumari for representation only. 

The Marvellous Tree

                            In the heart of the forest, tall and free, A tree stands proud, a marvel to see.

Its branches reach for the sky so high, A symphony of leaves, against the blue sky.

Beneath its shade, a haven of peace, Where woodland creatures find release.

Roots dig deep in the earth below, A silent dance, a life to bestow.

Through seasons changing, a timeless friend, Witness to stories, beginning to end.

Leaves whisper tales in the rustling breeze, Nature's secrets, shared with the trees.

In the embrace of the forest's might, The tree stands strong, a guardian of light.

A silent witness to the passing time, A testament to nature's sublime.

Pallavi Kumari

Grade- VIII

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara 

Trees - Samriddhi Banerjee

                                                                      Picture from treehugger.com
The oak is called the king of trees,

The aspen quivers in the breeze.

The poplar grows up straight and tall, 

The peach trees spread along the walls,

The sycamore gives pleasant shade.

Samriddhi Banerjee
Class 4
Sunbeam School Lahartara

Two men looked out the prison bars; one saw mud, one saw stars - Nishan Karki

The image is for representation only.

The man who saw the mud was sad and angry. He never remained happy and was very aggressive. He never practised happiness; in fact, he did not know it. He could not control his emotions and actions. He often fought with the other prisoners. This made the other prisoners hate him. They never wanted to be with him except for the prisoners who resembled him in nature.

What about the man who saw stars?   Well, he was a man with a joyful and happy nature. He laughed a lot and made other prisoners laugh, too. The other prisoners always enjoyed his company. They preferred him rather than the first prisoner. Although he was a prisoner, he was soft-hearted.

Everyone has different perspectives, perceptions, ideas, views, opinions and experiences. They usually differ from each other. People's behaviour and actions define who they are. 

To be like the second prisoner, one must have a healthy (pure and soft) heart. He must know how to control his emotions and actions. He must know how to behave with others and enjoy their company. He must be happy. Remember, "the one who gets angry for a minute loses 60 seconds of happiness."

A positive attitude and mindset can also make a person happy and joyful, like the second man. To get happiness, one must have a burning desire for it, which must be mixed with faith to gain it.

"To change ourselves effectively, we first had to change our perceptions." – Stephen R. Covey. 

Nishan Karki

Class 10, Pestalozzi Children's Village India

Image Courtesy- iStock

There are many dimensions to every person - Nishan Karki

Picture Courtesy: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/A-human-being-exists-in-three-dimensions-and-all-of-them-must-be-in-their-natural_fig1_8893032

"Life has its dimensions in the mysterious." 

-Jesse Jackson

There are many dimensions to every person. People possess their qualities and abilities. These qualities are not singular but numerous. Here, dimensions refer to the inner and outer capacities of a person. 

Everyone has their unique qualities and experiences. Engaging with new things adds to a person's extent. It helps them gain knowledge and learn new things. The more experience a person has, the more dimensions they possess. 

A person's dimensions determine their value. Each individual has their way of doing things and interpreting situations. They all have different perspectives and views. It is about their approach to tasks. 

Some people take the world very seriously, remaining sad and bleak. They do not attempt to emerge from their sorrowful nature. They conceal their thoughts and feelings. They do not endeavour to explore their outer dimensions, instead becoming absorbed in their inner dimensions. Thus, people should strive to think outside the box and not remain confined to their inner thoughts.

On the other hand, there are people of an open and joyous nature. They share almost all moments and experiences with others. They consistently think outside the box, learning and experiencing new things. Others enjoy the company of such individuals.

However, there are exceptional people as well. For instance, some remain quiet but think outside the box. And explore their outer dimensions and potential. In contrast, some people are very talkative and joyful by nature. Yet, they do not think outside the box and explore their outer dimensions and potential. 

In concluding these observations, we understand that a person's definition is not solely shaped by their external nature and behaviour. It also encompasses their inner nature, thinking process, and communication skills. Each approaches things differently. Hence, every person has various dimensions that make them unique. 

Nishan Karki

Pestalozzi Children's Village, India.

You Breathe - Reveda Bhatt

Photo from: https://www.curioustitans.com/blog/book-review-when-breath-becomes-air-by-paul-kalanithir

I wrote the following poem after reading 'When Breath Becomes Air'. The book hits me to my core. I hope you feel the same way I did, too...;)

[They gave their breath.

Nature took it as air. 

We made it our breathe.]

You breathe now what once was air,

Which earlier was the breath of the person who disappeared,

That's just how it is-few days of sorrow

While the others celebrate-

The other not being here.

Might feel like despair

But to make it clear

That's how it is-

You Die - Few Cry - While The Others Celebrate You Not Being Here.

And then, what you used to 'BREATHE' just, in a moment, became 'AIR'.

Reveda Bhatt
Grade 9 The Aryan School

Appreciation - Tenzin Jambey

Image courtesy Pestalozzi World website.

Regarding appreciation, the image of people clapping for you and words like thanks and thank you come into our minds. Almost every people appreciate others by saying thanks and thank you. Some people think that only getting the word of thanks from others is an application, but I don't think about it that way.

Regarding my application work, I have done numerous good jobs. Whenever I do any good job or something, I first appreciate myself because it doesn't bring me any sadness or down feeling because of not being appreciated for my good work by someone; we should be the first to enjoy ourselves if we do any kind of work. Doing an excellent job in the presence of someone can be seen, and others might praise you for that, but being yourself without anyone's presence is a different thing; at that moment, there is no one to clap for you, and that's the moment when we should pat on our back for doing a good job. We should be good and kind to all humans, but what about plants and animals? They, too, have the right to live a long peaceful life. Humans are taking so much from nature and animals; in return, we are doing nothing helpful but destroying, killing and taking their life.

We should be kind to the plants and all the animals around us; in the hostel, I have planted varieties of flowers and plants since I am so attached to nature and the environment, and sometimes I water them in the evening. When I see that the soil level is unequal, I add soil and organic fertilizer like cow dung and decomposed vegetable peals. After returning from my vacation, I found that the plants had dried, and some had even died. I felt sad about that as I cared for them with my heart, I watered them, and the next day I saw them growing again, which thrilled me. No one appreciated me, as none saw me doing that, but when I appreciated myself, I heard the soundless appreciation of my plants and flowers. As the wind blew, they began to move, and I imagined they were dancing and singing with joy because I had watered them after so long.

We must come out of the mindset that being only kind to a human does not bring us appreciation, we must equally respect our mother earth and all the components of nature like air, water, land, soil, fire and even the dumb stones that stays in a fixed position and says nothing but we use it for many purposes.

Tenzin Jambey
Pestalozzi Children's Village India