Among several things that I really admire about SK, community involvement is one of the best. Well, this time we are venturing out, going a little bit further or rather way out there- helping build schools in the Eastern Hemisphere. We are collecting pennies for "Pennies for Peace" and joining in with philanthropist Mr. Greg Mortenson, founder of Central Asia Institute, in helping build schools in Afghanistan and Pakistan (schools mostly to educate young girls). His Holiness the Dalai Lama has said numerous times, if children from very early on are introduced to compassion, it helps them develop their brain and they function much better as they mature. This is why I was exhilarated to begin this project.
This afternoon, we first read "Listen to the Wind", followed by watching a documentary on Pennies for Peace. Children were really engaged in the documentary and watched it in great silence. From time to time they asked numerous questions. They were flabbergasted to know that with ONE PENNY students can buy a pencil in those countries: and were equally astonished to hear that $1.00 is all they need for their monthly fees. (Our students all together echoed... "Oh my goodness.") I can only imagine what was going on in their minds! As soon as it was over (I had prepared a jar for every classroom and some pennies to start with) children started putting pennies in the jars. I heard some students say that they had some coins in their wallets and that they would like to give right away. It was so gratifying to see how giving our children are.
Let us all try to help ...by building peace.... one school at a time. Please, give generously.....every penny makes a mighty school. Thank you.
I love this - and I think I need to buy this book! Oliver heard the word 'Afganistan' in the news the other day and told me that it sounded like a place you all discussed in school. When I suggested 'Pakistan' - he exclaimed, "that's it, Mommy!". He then proceeded to tell me the title of the book and the story about a man, his tools, a bridge and the wonderful school that was built for the children in Pakistan. He said he'd like to go to Pakistan one day just to see that school.
ReplyDeleteIt clearly had an impact on him and I look forward to reading not only the children's book written by Mr. Mortenson, but his book Three Cups of Tea (which is still on my reading list!).
Thanks for this post and for spending time talking with our kids about something so inspiring. :-D
I am so excited that Oliver was able to narrate everything.Especially, about him wanting to go visit the school that Mr. Mortenson helped build..How cool is that, coming from a five year old..
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for the compliment, Karen :)
Cheers,
Anita