In our morning
elementary/middle school session, Sue and Beverly (our guest speakers),
provided a wealth of information and perspectives to enrich and deepen
children's experience of making a difference in our world. The question,
"What do compassionate people do?" spoke volumes of the importance,
responsibility and modeling necessary as we teach our children. On the front
cover of Susan Gelber Cannon's book "Think, Care, Act," there are
four books on the ground next to a stool where a man is reading a book. The
titles on the book spines are: Justice, Love, Peace, Wisdom.
I wonder what would
happen if our students had to pass tests in these areas rather (or maybe in
conjunction with) the PSSAs? Maybe they do when they...stand up for someone who
is being bullied, encourage someone who is having a tough day, reach out to
someone who is lonely. That humanity would certainly have been helpful to many,
like our four guests today, who relocated to a new country. Just learning the
language alone, with all of its nuances, is a challenge; I marveled that there
was more of an appreciation of how their life unfolded rather than judgement or
bitterness of their experiences.
Today was full of
insight, ideas and resources to use as we begin a new school year. I couldn't
help wishing I was a student in Sue and Beverly's classrooms when I was
younger. Their commitment and compassion in the classroom was evident in all
they shared. Our four U of P organizers have created a very enriching experience
for us. Much gratitude!
This entry was posted by Labaron Palmer, but created by Deborah Coy
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