Reading with Heart and Mind: Our Sunday Reflections at My Good School- Lotus Petal Foundation

 

Lotus Petal School

At Lotus Petal School, our Sunday Reading Sessions at My Good School help us see reading in a new light. Every story becomes a lesson in thinking, feeling, and growing.

Through the Four Fs — Fact, Feeling, Finding, and Future — we read with both heart and mind.
Fact helps us remember what happened,
Feeling lets us connect with the story,
Finding reveals hidden lessons, and
Future inspires us to apply them in life.

Each reading leaves us a little wiser, a little kinder, and more aware of the world around us. At My Good School, reading is not just an activity — it’s a way to learn and live better.

Lotus Petal Foundation

Lessons of Heart and Humanity - Sunbeam School Ballia

Reflection on Today's Session at My Good School

Today's session of My Good School was truly enlightening and left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. We were privileged to have Mrs Brinda Ghosh, ma’am, share with us the poignant tales from The Inner Life of Animals, illuminating the often-overlooked struggles animals face as they grow old. Her narrative not only sensitised us to their pain but also kindled within us a deeper sense of empathy and compassion.

The subsequent Hindi story, “मिस बैब्कॉक की बड़ी उँगली,” masterfully narrated by Mrs Manisha ma’am, wove a captivating tapestry of emotions that kept us enthralled throughout. Its profound meaning continues to linger within us — a testament to the enduring power of storytelling.

Furthermore, Manisha ma’am’s inspiring tale of the deaf nurse imparted a moral that truly touched our hearts: “Don’t let your comfort hurt others.” This poignant reminder of our responsibility toward others will stay with us for a long time.

Today’s session, filled with stories, emotions, and values, was a masterclass in empathy, understanding, and kindness towards all beings.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Sandeep Dutt sir and Jugjiv sir for crafting this extraordinary platform where we can learn, grow, and reflect in an atmosphere of warmth and inclusivity. As we move forward, let us strive to embody these lessons — cultivating empathy, compassion, and kindness that radiate outward to touch the lives of everyone around us.

Thank you.

Iqra Meraj – IX F

Reflection on Today's Session at My Good School

Today’s session was truly inspiring and full of meaningful learning experiences. We were honoured to have Mrs Brinda Ghosh, ma’am, with us, who narrated stories from the book “The Inner Life of Animals.” Through them, we learned that animals, just like humans, face challenges as they grow old — for example, horses find it hard to stand, and some animals even suffer from diseases like dementia. The story encouraged us to imagine life beyond our world and think creatively.

We also had an engaging Hindi story, “मिस बैब्कॉक की बड़ी उँगली,” beautifully narrated by Mrs Manisha ma’am. It carried deep meaning and kept us attentive throughout. Later, she also shared another inspiring story about a deaf nurse, teaching us a powerful moral:

“Don’t let your comfort hurt others.”

Another heartwarming part of the session was when my friends and I shared our reflections on the GSA retreat held in Varanasi.

Overall, today’s session was a blend of stories, emotions, and values — reminding us of empathy, understanding, and kindness toward both humans and animals. I am truly grateful to Sandeep Dutt, sir, and Jugjiv, sir, for providing us with such a wonderful platform to learn, grow, and reflect.

Ifra Wahid – Sunbeam Ballia

My Reflection

Good morning and Jai Hind!

Today’s class was very interesting and full of learning. First, Manisha Khanna, ma’am, began by asking us some MCQ questions, which made the class lively and fun. Everyone was excited to answer and see who got them right. After that, ma’am told us a beautiful story with a meaningful message that made us think deeply and enjoy learning.

Then, Brinda Ghosh, ma’am, joined our class and continued with the story “The Inner Life of Animals.” She explained how animals also have feelings, emotions, and thoughts just like humans. It was amazing to learn how animals can love, care, and even feel sad. I really liked how both ma’ams made the lesson interesting and easy to understand.

Today I learned many new things and felt happy to be part of such an engaging class.

Thank you!

Soumya Verma – Class 5C

Reflection on Today’s Session

Good morning and Jai Hind!

In my first session with Manisha ma’am, we read a story from Ruskin Bond’s Chapter 3. She began by asking questions related to our classmates and teachers, which made the class interactive. As she read the story, she also explained the meanings of difficult words, which helped us learn new vocabulary.

The second session was held with Brinda ma’am, who read from “The Inner Life of Animals.” During this session, I learned many new English words and fascinating facts about animals.

Thank you to everyone for the session!

Arnav Kumar Singh – Class 5C

Today's Reflection

The session began with Manisha ma’am asking us thoughtful questions to test our values and morals. Her questions made us reflect deeply on how we think and act.

Later, ma’am narrated a heart-touching story about a deaf nurse — how she communicated with her patients and cared for them with pure kindness. The story was truly inspiring and filled our hearts with admiration.

It left us with a powerful moral:

“Don’t let your comfort hurt others.”

In the second session, Brinda ma’am narrated a story from the book “The Inner Life of Animals.” The author beautifully personified the actions of aged animals, showing how their emotions and behaviours mirror those of humans.

Savita Singh – Class 9D

My Reflection

I attended a session conducted by Manisha ma’am under the Good School Alliance, and it was a truly engaging and meaningful experience. The session began with a fun quiz called “Naughty or Nice,” where we were given different situations and had to choose whether we would act kindly, wrongly, or not care at all. It made us think deeply about our actions and choices in everyday life.

After that, Manisha ma’am narrated a beautiful story by Ruskin Bond about a retired nurse who took care of three children in a small cottage. The story was touching and showed the values of love, care, and kindness, which she explained wonderfully. I actively participated in the quiz, answered the first and second questions correctly, and received appreciation from ma’am.

Overall, the session was inspiring, interactive, and full of valuable lessons that encouraged us to be more thoughtful and compassionate.

Ishika – Class 9A

My Reflection on Today's Session

In today’s session, we had Manisha ma’am, who began by asking us about the values we should have. Then she narrated a story of a “Deaf Nurse,” teaching us about how she communicated with her patients and treated them with care.

After Manisha ma’am’s class, we had Brinda ma’am, who continued with “The Inner Life of Animals.” She asked questions in between and explained difficult words, which helped me focus more.

The session was truly knowledgeable and eye-opening.

Thank you! ✨

Janhvi Singh – Class 5C

My Reflection on Today's Good School Session

Today’s session was full of learning and inspiration. Manisha ma’am started the class with interesting questions that made everyone think. Then she shared a meaningful story that taught us about good values and kindness. The story had a beautiful message that helped us understand how important it is to help others and stay positive.

After that, Brinda ma’am continued the session with “The Inner Life of Animals.” She explained how animals also have feelings, emotions, and care for each other just like humans do.

I really enjoyed both the stories and learned that compassion and understanding make us better human beings.

Thank you!

Talat Bano – Class 5C 

My Reflection

🌸 Today’s session was one of the most inspiring classes I’ve attended. Manisha ma’am began with a short talk about values and then told us the beautiful story “The Deaf Nurse.” I loved how it showed that true communication isn’t only through words but through kindness, actions, and care. It made me realise that even small gestures can make a big difference in someone’s life.

After that, Brinda ma’am continued with the story “The Inner Life of Animals.” I was amazed to learn that animals have their own world of emotions and thoughts. It felt heartwarming to understand how deeply they can love and feel.

By the end of the session, I felt thoughtful and happy. The class was not just about learning stories — it was about learning life lessons that will always stay with me.

Thank you! 🌟

Aadhya – Class 5B

My Reflection on Today’s Good School Session

Today’s session was full of learning and inspiration. Manisha ma’am started the class with some interesting questions that made everyone think deeply. Then she shared a meaningful story that taught us about good values and kindness. The story had a beautiful message that helped us understand how important it is to help others and stay positive.

After that, Brinda ma’am continued the session with “The Inner Life of Animals.” She explained how animals also have feelings, emotions, and care for each other just like humans do.

I really enjoyed both the stories and learned that compassion and understanding make us better human beings.

Thank you!!
— Arohi Jaiswal, Class 5B

Design by Sunbeam School

Roots, Circuits, and Stories: Lessons on Growth, Connection, and Being Human - Sunbeam Varuna

1. Lessons of The Hidden Life of Trees:

Trees are interconnected through fungal networks, showing us the importance of building strong relationships and community. Trees adapt to harsh weather conditions, pests, and diseases, teaching us to be resilient in the face of challenges. They bend and flex in strong winds, demonstrating the value of being flexible and adaptable.

Trees grow slowly and steadily over time, showing us the importance of patience and perseverance in achieving our goals. They provide shade, shelter, food, and oxygen for countless creatures, teaching us the value of selflessness and giving to others.

Trees go through cycles of growth, decay, and rebirth, reminding us to accept and embrace change and impermanence.

Trees have been on our planet for millions of years, holding ancient wisdom and knowledge that can teach us about the importance of preserving traditional knowledge and respecting the natural world.

Trees live in harmony with their environment, showing us the importance of living in balance with nature and respecting the interconnectedness of all living things.

These lessons from The Hidden Life of Trees can inspire us to live more mindful, compassionate, and sustainable lives.

2. A fascinating topic! AI vs AI

It refers to the competition, collaboration, or comparison between different artificial intelligence systems. This can happen in various domains, such as:

AI-powered agents are competing against each other in games like chess, Go, or video games. Different AI algorithms or models are competing to achieve better performance, accuracy, or efficiency.

AI has introduced chatbots or language models engaging in conversations, debating, or generating text. It controls robots competing in tasks like navigation, manipulation, or human-robot interaction.

The AI vs AI paradigm leads to improved performance through competition. These systems can push each other to improve.

Collaboration between AI systems can lead to new ideas, approaches, or solutions. Testing AI systems against each other can help identify vulnerabilities and improve overall robustness.

AI vs AI also raises concerns about: AI systems may perpetuate or amplify existing biases when competing or collaborating. Unintended consequences or loss of control may arise when AI systems interact or compete. Questions about accountability, transparency, and human oversight become increasingly important.

The AI vs AI landscape is rapidly evolving, with potential applications in fields like:

Education — adaptive learning systems, Healthcare — diagnosis, treatment, or patient care, Cybersecurity — threat detection, response, or mitigation.

Thus, as AI continues to advance, the AI vs AI dynamic will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of artificial intelligence.

3. Lessons by Cinnamon

The book My Name is Cinnamon teaches us many lessons that can pour a drastic change in our life...

Cinnamon teaches the importance of spreading warmth and kindness, just like its aroma fills the air. As a spice, Cinnamon has been traded and traveled extensively, teaching us to be resilient and adaptable in the face of change.

Cinnamon's unique flavor and aroma remind us to celebrate our individuality and stay true to ourselves.

Cinnamon provides comfort and solace, teaching us to be present and supportive for others in times of need. The warmth and coziness associated with Cinnamon encourage us to cultivate gratitude and appreciation for life's simple pleasures. Cinnamon's soothing properties remind us to prioritize self-care and nourishment for our minds, bodies, and spirits.

Cinnamon's rich history and cultural significance inspire us to explore and discover new things about ourselves and the world. The bold and warm flavor of Cinnamon emboldens us to take risks, build confidence, and pursue our passions. Cinnamon's role in bringing people together through food and tradition teaches us the value of building strong connections and community.

It's just a reminder to live a life filled with warmth, kindness, resilience, and authenticity.

4. Cinnamon Speaks

Hello friends,

My name is Cinnamon. Do you know I sound like...

C - Compassionate:

You spread warmth and kindness wherever you go.

I - Inspiring:

Your unique flavour and spirit inspire others to be their best selves.

N - Nurturing:

You provide comfort and solace to those around you, just like the soothing properties of cinnamon.

N - Nimble:

You're adaptable and resilient, navigating life's challenges with ease and grace.

A - Authentic:

You stay true to yourself, embracing your individuality and celebrating your unique strengths.

M - Mindful:

You cultivate gratitude and appreciation for life's simple pleasures, finding joy in everyday moments.

M - Meaningful:

You add depth and purpose to the lives of those around you, making a positive impact in your community.

O - Optimistic:

You radiate warmth and positivity, illuminating the path for others and inspiring hope and confidence.

N - Nourishing:

You prioritise self-care and nourishment, taking care of your mind, body, and spirit.

This is the creative interpretation of the name, Cinnamon!

23/02/2025

1. Why does the book focus so much on the role of community and different communities in India?

My Name is Cinnamon emphasises the role of community and different communities in India because it uses the protagonist's experiences navigating various social groups within Indian society to explore themes of identity, belonging, and acceptance, particularly for adopted children, highlighting how different communities can impact one's life and sense of self within a complex social landscape.

Key points about the book's focus on community:

Social dynamics:

The story delves into the nuances of class, caste, and regional differences within India, showing how these factors can influence Cinnamon's interactions and experiences.

Family and kinship:

The concept of family extends beyond the immediate nuclear unit, with the extended family and community playing a significant role in Cinnamon's life.

Adoption narrative:

As an adopted child, Cinnamon's search for belonging is deeply tied to his understanding of his biological family and the community he is adopted into.

School environment:

The school setting provides a microcosm of Indian society, showcasing the dynamics between different social groups and how Cinnamon navigates them.

2. How did you come up with the name "Cinnamon" for the main character?

The name "Cinnamon" evokes warmth, comfort, and a sense of sweetness. It's a unique and memorable name that suggests a character who is:

Warm and nurturing, with a caring personality.

Comforting and soothing, with a calming presence.

Sweet and gentle, with a kind heart.

In a story, Cinnamon could be a character who brings people together, provides solace in times of need, and adds a touch of warmth and sweetness to those around her.

3. When do you think is the best time to tell an adopted child about their adoption?

The ideal time to tell an adopted child about their adoption varies depending on the child's age, maturity, and individual development. Here are some general guidelines:

Start sharing simple, age-appropriate information about their adoption story, using positive and reassuring language.

Gradually provide more details about their adoption, encouraging questions and open discussions.

Engage in more in-depth discussions about their adoption, exploring emotions, and addressing potential concerns.

When discussing adoption with a child, consider the following:

• Be honest, open, and positive.

• Use simple, clear language.

• Validate their feelings and emotions.

• Be prepared for ongoing conversations.

• Respect their boundaries and pace.

It's necessary to remember — every child is unique, and the right time to discuss adoption will depend on their individual needs and developmental stage.

4. How should an adopted child react if they are being bullied at school?

Bullying is a sensitive and serious issue that must be stopped at its initial step. Everyone's respect must be followed and cared for well. When an adopted child goes through bullying at school, he has no way to go ahead but to tolerate and suffer.

He takes a few deep breaths and tries not to react impulsively. He tries to find a trusted adult, such as a teacher, school counsellor, or parent, and report the bullying.

If someone is bullying, he must share emotions and concerns with a trusted adult or friend. He should write downhis  thoughts and feelings to process and release emotions. He must try to celebrate individual strengths, talents, and accomplishments. He should surround himself with positive, supportive friends and family.

If bullying is related to adoption, talk to a trusted adult about how to address these specific comments or behaviours. He must share positive aspects of his adoption story with friends and family to promote understanding and pride.

Stop...

Bullying is not okay.

No one deserves to be bullied, and it's not the child's fault.

Adoption is a positive experience.

Adoption is a loving and selfless act that provides a child with a forever family.

5. What strategies can aspiring writers implement to balance quality and quantity in their writing process?

The general strategies for balancing quality and quantity in writing... very first we will talk about quality-oriented steps to be taken...

Set clear goals and deadlines:

Establish specific, achievable objectives for each writing session.

Develop a writing routine:

Create a consistent schedule to ensure dedicated time for writing.

Outline and plan:

Organise ideas, structure, and plot before starting to write.

Revise and edit:

Allocate time for reviewing, revising, and editing to refine your work.

Seek feedback:

Share your work with others to receive constructive feedback and improve.

Now we have to discuss quantity-focused steps to be followed:

Write regularly:

Commit to a regular writing schedule, even if it's just 10–15 minutes a day.

Use writing prompts:

Utilise prompts or exercises to generate new ideas and stay motivated.

Set word count targets:

Challenge yourself to write a certain number of words within a set timeframe.

Practice freewriting:

Write freely without stopping or worrying about grammar, spelling, or perfection.

Experiment with different formats:

Try writing in different styles, such as poetry, short stories, or journalism.

By implementing these strategies, aspiring writers can set a balance between quality and quantity, leading to improved productivity, creativity, and overall writing success.

Sunbeam Varuna

Sunbeam Lahartara: Reading Our Minds Aloud

 

Educating with Empathy.pptx by Manisha Khanna

At our Sunday School, we immerse ourselves in a vibrant environment where every story and activity teaches us valuable lessons and resonates with our hearts. If we could share our thoughts, you would see how deeply we cherish each moment spent together.

During the Youth Engaging Society Workshop with Shikha Ma’am, we discovered the importance of empathy. We learned to listen to others patiently and to understand feelings beyond our own. We practised kindness, not only through our words but also through simple acts that can brighten someone's day. We also realized the value of determination—when challenges arise, courage and persistence guide us toward success.

Our Sunday School experience was more than a class; it was a gentle reminder that values shape who we are. We carry these lessons forward, proud to be Sunbeamians who believe in touching lives with empathy, spreading kindness, and facing every challenge with determination.

Learning Empathy and Kindness - Sunbeam School Ballia

My Good School 31st August 2025

Our first session with Shikha ma'am was particularly enlightening, as we explored the differences between empathy, sympathy, and kindness. We learned how these acts can profoundly impact not only our own happiness, but also that of our friends and surroundings. We also gained valuable insights into practising empathy in various situations.

The second session with Jugjiv sir was a delightful book-reading experience. The Door-to-Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn highlighted the immense value of friendship through the story of Carl, a bookseller.

Today's session was incredibly encouraging and helpful in my journey to develop essential skills, be empathetic, and practice kindness.

Ifra Wahid

Class IX

Today, we had Ms. Shikha ma'am with us, and we learnt about kindness, friendship, and empathy. I understood how we can help our friends in every situation—whether they are facing a problem or not, and whether they are in a good mood or not. I felt thrilled because Ma'am helped me answer my question and also gave me a chance to speak. Today's session was very interactive and genuinely one of the best sessions I've ever had.

Talat Bano 

Class V-C

In today's session, I learnt that kindness is when we do something good for others, but empathy is when we actually feel what they feel. Kindness is like giving a hand, and empathy is like walking beside someone so they don't feel alone. When both come together, even small actions can make a big difference. A simple act, such as listening to a friend or standing with someone who feels hurt, can give them the courage they need.

Today, I understood that kindness is the action, but empathy is the heart inside it. If we practice both, we not only make one person's day better, but also make this world a softer and kinder place to live in.

Astha Mishra 

Class IX-D

It was one of the most fruitful sessions I have ever attended. It was taken by Ms. Shikha Agnihotri and focused on how children's emotions affect their lives. She has conducted multiple analyses of child psychology, and her explanation of kindness and empathy made it clear how we should practice these values in our daily lives.

We asked many questions, and Shikha ma'am answered them patiently, ensuring that she conveyed the essence of kindness and empathy to us. In the middle of the session, we even discussed coping with bullying, which made the discussion even more impactful.

Janvi Singh 

Class IX-F

Storytelling that Brings Nature Alive - Sunbeam School Ballia

In the first part of the session, we read a story about the inner life of animals. The story was truly confronting—the life of animals, how they feel, what problems they face. This story also tells you about a place where animals stay freely without any danger. And in the second part, Manisha ma'am read the story of Lakshya and also told us about what things are required in the path of your success. The story tells about why there is a need for ambition.

And my favourite part was the question-and-answer session where Jugjiv sir answered all questions in a very understandable way. At the beginning, I also got a suggestion for making my reading better.

SAVITA SINGH

IX- D

Today’s My Good School session left me with many thoughts to carry forward. The first book, Inner Life of Animals, read with Ms. Brinda Ghosh, opened my eyes to the depth of emotions animals experience. It was touching to realise that they too have feelings and connections, reminding me that empathy must extend beyond just people—it should include every living being.

The second book, क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है, shared by Ms. Manisha Khanna, made me reflect on how we prepare children for life. It was a gentle reminder that education is not only about marks or subjects but also about giving children the strength and courage to face real-world challenges with confidence.

Both readings beautifully connected—the first teaching us compassion, the second resilience. Together, they showed that true learning is about shaping both the heart and the mind. Each Sunday at My Good School feels like a step toward becoming better versions of ourselves.

By Pranjal Rai
IX- D

Today’s session was truly eye-opening and deeply enriching. We began by exploring Peter Wohlleben’s The Inner Life of Animals, where scientific facts unfolded like gentle forest fables. His storytelling revealed the emotions and hidden struggles of creatures like squirrels, ravens, and horses—transforming them from mere animals into beings with inner lives that deserve empathy and respect. It made me more aware of the challenges animals face and the importance of creating safe spaces where they can live peacefully alongside us.

Adding to this, Manisha Ma’am shared the inspiring story of Lakshya, centred on ambition and determination. It beautifully highlighted how clarity of goals and a strong mindset can shape success. This narrative not only encouraged me to reflect on my own ambitions but also reminded me of the value of perseverance in everyday life.

What truly elevated the session was the engaging way our mentor connected these stories with larger life lessons. The discussions showed me how storytelling has the power to reshape our perspectives—whether about the natural world or about personal growth.

Overall, the session left me inspired, motivated for self-reflection, and equipped with practical ideas to grow both as a learner and as a person.

Aayush Kumar Singh
X-A

Today’s session was truly eye-opening. In the first part, we explored a story about animals that revealed their hidden struggles and emotions. It made me more aware of the challenges they face and the importance of creating safe spaces where they can live peacefully.

Manisha Ma’am then shared the story of Lakshya, which focused on ambition and determination. It taught me that having clear goals and the right mindset is essential for success, and it made me reflect on how I can apply these lessons in my own life.

Overall, the session inspired me, encouraged self-reflection, and gave me practical ideas to grow both as a learner and as a person.

Astha Mishra
IX-D

At today’s Good School Alliance Reading Session, I attended the discussion on The Inner Life of Animals by Peter Wohlleben. I really liked how the storytelling made scientific facts feel like little stories, almost like fables of the forest. Animals were shown not just as creatures but as beings with emotions—squirrels, ravens, and even horses felt alive in a new way through his words.

Our mentor’s responses during the session made the discussion even more engaging and helped me realise how storytelling can completely change the way we look at the natural world.

Janvi Singh
IX-F

Today, I learned that achieving success requires a clear aim, skill development, and hard work. Breaking down goals into smaller parts helps maintain momentum, and embracing failure as a learning opportunity is crucial. By staying focused and committed, I can make steady progress towards my objectives. This reflection reminds me to work diligently and maintain a growth mindset to achieve my goals. 

Ifra Wahid 
IX F

Lessons of Compassion and Purpose - Neha Srivastava

As part of the regular Sunday Reading Session, I had the privilege of listening to two inspiring readings—The Inner Life of Animals and Lakshya—presented by Ms Brinda Ghosh and Ms. Manisha Khanna, with enriching insights shared by Mr. Jugjiv Singh. The first reading beautifully highlighted the emotions and silent language of animals, reminding us to extend compassion not only to human beings but to every living creature. The second, Lakshya, emphasised the importance of motivation and the significance of setting clear goals in life. Mr. Singh’s reflections added depth to the discussion, making it even more relatable and impactful.

As a teacher, I found the session especially meaningful. It reminded me of my responsibility to instil empathy, kindness, and purpose in my students. Such sessions not only touch the heart but also shape the mind, leaving behind lessons that inspire us to live with greater sensitivity and determination.

Ms. Neha Srivastava

Educator

Sunbeam School Ballia

GSA Calendar August 2025

Notice: There will be no Brewing Knowledge Friday on the 1st of August and the Saturday Masterclass on 2nd August 2025, as we’re away for SGEF 2025. Please visit us at the Scoonews Global Edfest, find out more at www.globaledfest.com

My Good School

3^rd   August 2025
Amardeep Singh Screening of Allegory. The Tapestry of Guru Nanak’s Travels 

Episode - 20 गीन गुलदस्ता (रंग-बिरंगे फूलों का गुच्छा 

10^th August 2025
Book Reading- The Inner Life of Animals
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?

17^th  August 2025
Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?

24^th   August 2025
We aim to inspire young minds, helping them navigate their dreams and aspirations while embracing their goals.
The YES workshop with Shikha Agnihotri, founder of The Right Side Story

Book Reading- The Inner Life of Animals

31^st August 2025

Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore 
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?

The Teachers Academy

Brewing Knowledge Fridays at 5.30 PM: Book Reading with Sandeep Dutt:

• What Did You Ask At School Today: A Handbook Of Child Learning; and 
• The Book of Rumi: 105 Stories And Fables That Illumine Delight And Inform

Saturday Masterclass Webinar at 5:30 PM: Productive Failure - Design for and turn your failures into meaningful learning experiences

GSA Squad Meetings

At 5:30 PM every Monday on Zoom - GSA Coordinators, Volunteers and Mentors. #JoyOfGiving We review programs and plan for the coming week.

Good Schools of India

Are you signed up for the Good Schools of India Weekly yet? Don't miss out on valuable insights—published every Monday at 7:00 AM! #JoyOfLearning Subscribe at: www.GSI.in

Seeds of Thought, Blooms of Change - Lotus Petal Foundation

Reflections- 20 July 2025.pdf Posted by Manisha Khanna

At Lotus Petal Foundation School, reflection is an integral part of the learning process. Here, students are encouraged not only to answer questions, but also to ask them about life, themselves, and society. After each lesson, they pause, ponder, and express their insights through stories, drawings, journals, and discussions. This creative culture of reflection empowers students to connect learning with lived experiences. It nurtures empathy, resilience, and originality. Whether sketching a lotus to represent hope or writing poems about kindness, their reflections bloom into ideas that shape a better tomorrow.

Joy of Learning Calendar July 2025

My Good School

6^th  July 2025
Book Reading- The Door-To-Door Bookstore
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?

13^th July 2025
Book Reading- The Inner Life of animals
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?

20^th  July 2025
Amardeep Singh Screening of Episode 19 निमृत प्रभाव (विनम्रता की छाप) 
Book Reading- The Inner Life of animals

27^th   July 2025
We aim to inspire young minds, helping them navigate while embracing their dreams and aspirations.
The YES workshop with Shikha Agnihotri, founder of The Right Side Story
Book Reading- क्या आपका बच्चा दुनिया का सामना करने के लिए तैयार है?

The Teacher's Academy

Brewing Knowledge Fridays at 5.30 PM: Book Reading with Sandeep Dutt:

• What Did You Ask At School Today: A Handbook Of Child Learning; and 
• The Book of Rumi 105 Stories And Fables That Illumine Delight And Inform

Saturday Masterclass Webinar at 5:30 PM: Productive Failure - Design for and turn your failures into meaningful learning experiences

GSA Squad Meetings

At 5:30 PM every Monday on Zoom - GSA Coordinators, Volunteers and Mentors. #JoyOfGiving Review programs and plan for the coming week.

Good Schools of India

Are you signed up for the Good Schools of India Weekly yet? Don't miss out on valuable insights—published every Monday at 7:00 AM! #JoyOfLearning Subscribe at: www.GSI.in

My Good School, Sunday the 8th June 2025

Watch a recording of the session on YouTube

https://youtu.be/MyGoodSchool

Critical thinking question. 

Focus on values such as kindness, uncertainty, responsibility, fairness, and choice.

🌱 1. The Umbrella and the Smile

 Anaya gave an extra umbrella to an old woman in the rain. She felt good but worried, "What if I need it later?"

अनाया ने बारिश में अपनी एक अतिरिक्त छतरी एक बुज़ुर्ग महिला को दे दी। उसे अच्छा लगा, लेकिन सोचा, "अगर बाद में मुझे इसकी ज़रूरत पड़ी तो?"

Q: Why do you think people help others even when they're unsure about the future?

प्रश्न: लोग दूसरों की मदद क्यों करते हैं, जब वे भविष्य को लेकर अनिश्चित होते हैं?

🧃 2. The Last Juice Box

 Aarav had only one juice box in his bag. His friend was tired and thirsty, so Aarav gave it to him.

आरव के पास बैग में केवल एक जूस था। उसका दोस्त थका हुआ था और प्यासा भी, इसलिए आरव ने उसे दे दिया।

Q: Was Aarav’s choice wise? Why or why not?

प्रश्न: क्या आरव का निर्णय सही था? क्यों या क्यों नहीं?

⏰ 3. The Group Project

Riya did all the work for the group project because her teammates didn't help. They all got the same grade.

रिया ने ग्रुप प्रोजेक्ट का सारा काम अकेले किया क्योंकि उसके साथी मदद नहीं कर रहे थे। फिर भी सभी को समान अंक मिले।

Q: Do you think it's fair when everyone gets credit for one person's effort?

प्रश्न: जब एक व्यक्ति का काम सबको समान रूप से सराहा जाता है, तो क्या यह उचित है?

💧 4. The Forgotten Bottle

 Rahul forgot his water bottle. His classmate offered to share, even though she had little left.

 राहुल अपनी पानी की बोतल भूल गया। उसकी सहपाठी ने थोड़ा ही पानी होने पर भी उसे साझा किया।

Q: What does this tell you about sharing during difficult times?

प्रश्न: यह कठिन समय में साझा करने के बारे में आपको क्या सिखाता है?

🖍️ 5. The Broken Crayon

Meera accidentally broke another student's crayon. She felt bad and gave her a replacement crayon.

मीरा ने गलती से किसी और की क्रेयॉन तोड़ दी। उसे बुरा लगा और उसने अपनी क्रेयॉन उसे दे दी।

Q: Why is it important to take responsibility for our mistakes?

प्रश्न: अपनी गलती की जिम्मेदारी लेना क्यों ज़रूरी है?

🕊️ 6. The Bird on the Window

A bird sat quietly on the classroom window. Everyone wanted to scare it away, but Ishaan said, "Let's just watch it."

एक चिड़िया चुपचाप कक्षा की खिड़की पर बैठी थी। सब उसे उड़ाना चाहते थे, लेकिन ईशान ने कहा, "आओ, बस इसे देखें।"

Q: What does this moment teach us about patience and respect for life?

प्रश्न: यह पल हमें धैर्य और जीवन के प्रति सम्मान के बारे में क्या सिखाता है?

My Good School, Sunday the 1st June 2025

Screening of Episode 18 सुमेरू (चेतना): Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels by Amardeep Singh 

The Sunday School began with introductions and technical setup, followed by a presentation of a documentary series focusing on northern Pakistan and Tibet, exploring Guru Nanak's teachings and historical connections in the region. Discussions covered various geographical, cultural, and spiritual aspects of the area, including Mount Kailash, Baltistan, and the India-Pakistan border region. The conversation ended with an overview of Guru Nanak's travels and teachings, emphasizing the spiritual wisdom he documented rather than historical details of his journeys.

Next steps

• Amardeep: Continue filming and production of the documentary series on Indic aims as mentioned in the discussion
• Kunal: Write and share the impact study report about Guru Nanak allegory's influence on My Good School's growth with Amardeep
• Amardeep: Schedule and conduct Episode 19 viewing session after July 15th due to travel commitments

Summary

Meeting Setup and Participant Introduction

Jugjiv opens the meeting and greets participants as they join. He confirms that he has host controls and discusses scheduling with Amardeep for future meetings. Jugjiv then asks participants to rename themselves with their names and schools for easier identification. As more people join, Jugjiv decides to start the meeting, noting that it will be a long session and others can join as they proceed.

Documentary on Pakistan-Tibet Border Regions

Amardeep introduces episode 18 of his documentary series, which focuses on the northern regions of Pakistan and Tibet. He highlights that these areas are less accessible to Indians due to political boundaries. The episode, which is over an hour long, begins with a message about the essence of Guru Nanak's teachings, emphasizing the importance of intent over rituals. Amardeep also touches on themes of religious commercialization, the power of creation, and the historical connections between regions now separated by political borders.

Historical Border Freedom and Diversity

Amardeep presents a video about the historical freedom of movement across borders in the region, particularly focusing on the now-extinct settlement of Boogie Kingdom at Saparag. The video, which is in a language other than English, appears to discuss cultural and religious diversity in the area, mentioning Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and British. Amardeep plans to end the episode after showing the extinct settlement and then move on to Kailash man server.

Multilingual Meeting With Limited Context

The meeting transcript appears to be a mix of different languages and disjointed phrases, making it difficult to provide a coherent summary. The only clear segment is at the end where Jugjiv speaks in English, mentioning that participants can ask questions in the chat and starts to ask Amardeep a question. Without more context or coherent discussion, it's not possible to provide a meaningful summary of decisions, alignments, or action items from this transcript.

Guru Nanak's Spiritual Journeys

The discussion covers Guru Nanak's travels to Kailash Mansar over and Baltistan. Amardeep explains the spiritual significance of Mount Kailash as a gathering place for ascetics and its importance in feeding the Asian subcontinent's water systems. He highlights Guru Nanak's dialogue with Nath Jogis at Kailash, emphasizing the importance of respectful discussions in spiritual matters. The conversation then moves to Mansar over and Rakshastal lakes, representing wisdom and negativity respectively. Amardeep also discusses the challenges of filming in these high-altitude areas and the profound messages conveyed through Guru Nanak's travels in Ladakh and Baltistan.

Soham Mantra and Mount Kailash

Amardeep explains the meaning of the mantra "Soham," breaking it down to "So" (that) and "Hum" (me), emphasizing that the cosmic energy resides within oneself. He then attempts to play an audio or video clip about Mount Kailash, but encounters technical difficulties. The clip, once playing, describes Mount Kailash's geographical and spiritual significance, mentioning its height, surrounding rivers, and importance in various religious traditions.

Multilingual Meeting Summary

The transcript appears to be a mixture of Korean and Romanian languages without a clear topic or coherent conversation. Due to the lack of meaningful content and the language barrier, it is not possible to provide a summary that meets the given guidelines.

Baltistan: Borderland Cultures and Landscapes

Amardeep discusses various geographical and cultural aspects of the India-Pakistan border region, focusing on Baltistan. He mentions mountain ranges, glaciers, and the Line of Control that passes through the area. The conversation touches on religious diversity in the region, including Hindu and Muslim populations, as well as linguistic elements.

Guru Nanak's Spiritual Journeys Overview

Amardeep presents an overview of Guru Nanak's travels and teachings. He explains that Guru Nanak did not write about his own life or travels, but left 928 verses of spiritual wisdom in scripture. The details of Guru Nanak's journeys come from hagiographies written by followers 60-150 years after his life, based on oral traditions. Amardeep emphasizes that Guru Nanak's focus was on documenting spiritual insights rather than historical details. He notes that Guru Nanak's verses demonstrate deep knowledge of various religious traditions he encountered in his travels, showing how travel broadened his wisdom.

A Recording Of The Session

Reflection questions that will help deepen your understanding of yourself and the world around you.

1. Thinking about your awareness
   What does "consciousness" mean to you, and how do you stay aware of your thoughts and actions in daily life?

2. Recalling a deeper moment
   Have you ever experienced a time when you felt truly connected to something bigger than yourself—nature, people, or a quiet inner feeling? What was that moment like?

3. Considering your daily interactions
   How can you become more mindful and present when you're talking, listening, or spending time with others?

4. Exploring the idea of unity
   Guru Nanak spoke of a universal consciousness that exists in everyone. How can understanding this help us become more empathetic and accepting of people from different backgrounds?

5. Reflecting on your inner world
   In what ways can taking time to reflect on your thoughts and feelings help you understand your values, goals, and purpose better?

Reflection helps us pause, understand ourselves better, and grow through our experiences. We invite you to share your takeaways or reflections as a post and send it to mk@learningforward.org.in.