Lessons from Animals and Life - Sunbeam Suncity School

Sunday School by My Good School turned out to be an enlightening session. Today, we explored the inner life of animals, realising that just like humans, animals too need care and compassion to survive. They are not naturally harmful; rather, it is often our mistreatment that makes them appear dangerous. We also learned about the behavioural patterns of animals and how these connect with human behaviour in many ways.

—Atharv Singh Chauhan

Animals, like wild boars crossing rivers to escape hunters, show how fear can drive intelligent behaviour for survival. Similarly, in human life, fear can act as both a warning signal and a motivator to adapt wisely to challenges.

—Yuvraj Singh

Today's discussion on goals, skills, passion, discipline, and perseverance highlights that success is never accidental—it is the result of clear direction, consistent effort, and the right mindset. Just like animals rely on instinct and practice, humans thrive when preparation meets persistence.

—Rishi Agrawal

Today, we learnt about the importance of addressing individuals correctly, along with the evolving nature of titles, reminding us that respect and acknowledgement shape relationships. Just as behaviour defines animals and humans alike, our words and manners define how we are perceived in society.

—Rishabh Singh

Animals often mirror their surroundings—gentle when nurtured, hostile when threatened. Humans, too, react to their environment; a supportive setting brings out positivity, while a toxic one can create negativity. This highlights the deep link between behaviour and environment.

—Shishir Verma

My Good School, Sunday 26 January 2025

 

Sunday School #173

Reflection Questions from the Chapter "Take Courage" from The Inner Life of Animals by Peter Wohlleben:

1. Empathy and Animal Behavior:
   How does Peter Wohlleben illustrate courage in animals in this chapter? Reflect on when you observed courage in an animal or another living being. How did it challenge your understanding of animal behaviour?

2. Perception of Animal Emotions:
   Wohlleben often draws parallels between human emotions and those of animals. Do you agree with his perspective that animals exhibit emotions like courage? Why or why not?

3. Ethical Implications:
   If animals can demonstrate courage and other complex emotions, what implications does this have for how humans treat and interact with them? How might this perspective shift societal norms?

4. Personal Courage:
   The chapter explores animal bravery in different contexts. How do you define courage in your own life? Can observing animals inspire us to act courageously? Provide an example.

 Wohlleben's narrative combines personal observations with scientific insights. It offers a thought-provoking perspective on the emotional lives of animals and invites readers to view them as sentient beings with experiences and emotions similar to ours.

  Reflection Questions from the Chapter "Black and White" from The Inner Life of Animals:

1. Sense of Justice:
   How does Wohlleben's discussion of fairness and justice in animals challenge traditional views of animal behaviour? What are examples of animals displaying a sense of fairness in their interactions?

2. Origins of Morality:
   If animals exhibit behaviours that resemble moral judgment, what might this suggest about the evolution of morality? How does this perspective influence your understanding of human and animal relationships?

3. Impact on Ethical Choices:
   After reading about animals' emotional and moral complexities, do you feel differently about human responsibilities toward them? How might this change the way we approach animal welfare or environmental conservation?

The central theme of the chapter "Black and White" from The Inner Life of Animals is the exploration of fairness, justice, and moral-like behaviours in animals. Peter Wohlleben argues that animals, like humans, can display a sense of right and wrong, challenging the idea that their actions are purely instinctual and highlighting the emotional and cognitive depth shared across species.

Reflection questions based on Chapter 15, Riding an Enfield, from My Name is Cinnamon by Vikas Prakash Joshi:

1. Freedom and Connection:
   How does riding the Enfield symbolize freedom and bonding for the characters in this chapter? Can you recall a similar experience where an activity or object strengthened your connection with someone?

2. Shared Experiences:
   The chapter highlights how shared experiences can create lasting memories. What role do shared adventures play in building relationships, and how does this chapter reflect that theme?

3. Personal Growth:
   Riding the Enfield represents more than a journey—it also reflects personal growth and confidence. How do you think such moments of adventure help individuals step out of their comfort zones and build self-assurance?

The central theme of Chapter 15, Riding an Enfield, from My Name is Cinnamon, revolves around the sense of freedom, adventure, and bonding that arises from shared experiences. The ride on the Enfield becomes a metaphor for stepping out of one's comfort zone, fostering personal growth, and strengthening relationships through trust and shared joy.

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