Beyond Books: Life Lessons from Sunday School - Jayant Raj

Yesterday’s Sunday school session was more than just an ordinary reading activity—it taught me something far more valuable than what we usually learn in school. Reading The Door-to-Door Bookstore gave me insights into managing my emotions. However, what truly stood out was when Manisha Ma’am spoke about a topic that, in my opinion, is often overlooked in education: the five essential skills every student should develop.

This topic deserves much more attention and should be promoted in every school, as it helps students stay focused on their goals while fostering self-awareness and resilience.

Jayant Raj 
Sunbeam Suncity

My Good School, Sunday the 6th July 2025

Weekly "My Good School" session focused on reading, reflection, and personal growth for students.

Key Takeaways

1. Discussed the importance of resilience and a positive mindset when facing challenges, using Steve Jobs' life story as an example
2. Explored the value of reflection vs. note-taking for deeper learning and personal growth
3. Introduced internship opportunities for students to gain practical business experience
4. Emphasised the importance of focused reading and listening for developing intelligence and leadership skills

Topics

Book Discussion: "The Door-to-Door Bookstore"

• Continued reading Chapter 5, focusing on characters Carl and Schascha
• Explored themes of friendship, misunderstandings, and helping others overcome challenges
• Discussed how Carl and Mrs Longstocking devised a plan to help Hercules learn to read

Personal Growth and Resilience

• Examined Steve Jobs' life story as an example of overcoming setbacks and persevering
• Discussed the concept of "blessing in disguise" - how apparent setbacks can lead to positive outcomes
• Encouraged students to develop a growth mindset and view challenges as opportunities for learning

Reflection vs. Note-taking

• Explained the difference between taking notes (recording information) and reflection (processing and applying information)
• Encouraged students to practice reflection to deepen their understanding and personal growth
• Introduced the Joy of Learning Diaries as a platform for sharing reflections

Internship Program

• Announced internship opportunities for students to gain practical business experience
• Explained the program structure: weekly meetings, hands-on projects, exposure to business operations
• Discussed fees and scholarship options for eligible schools

Additional Learning Opportunities

• Introduced "Brewing Knowledge" Friday evening book reading sessions
• Highlighted the importance of focused reading and listening for developing intelligence

Next Steps

• Students are encouraged to write reflections on the session and share them on the Joy of Learning Diaries.
• Interested students should explore the internship application process on schooleducation.com
• Participants are invited to join Friday evening "Brewing Knowledge" sessions for additional reading practice.
• Next week's session will follow a similar format, combining reading and reflection. 

Sunbeam Moments: Learning, Growing and Glowing!

Sunbeam Moments: Learning, Growing, Glowing.pptx by Manisha Khanna

Students from Sunbeam School Lahartara shared thoughtful reflections on the Sunday School stories of Guru Nanak’s travels and Kubja Ji. Guru Nanak’s journey inspired them to value humility, equality, and compassion. Kubja Ji’s story taught them the power of kindness and inner beauty. Their reflections showed a growing understanding of empathy, respect, and the strength of moral values in daily life.The story of Kubja, the legendary hunchbacked woman of Mathura. Guru Nanak and Oneness, what we learnt from the session with Amardeep Singh, at the screening of Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak’s Travels Episode 17. Our understanding of religion, belief and much more.

My Good School, Sunday 9th February, 2025

 Sunday School # 175

Reflection questions for Episode 14: Setu Bandh from Tapestry of Guru Nanak’s Travels:

1. What message did Guru Nanak convey about the true purpose of pilgrimage during his visit to Setu Bandh?

2. How does Guru Nanak’s perspective on devotion versus rituals challenge traditional beliefs?

3. In what ways can we apply Guru Nanak’s teachings on inner spirituality in our daily lives?

4. How can we promote unity among diverse communities while respecting different traditions, as Guru Nanak demonstrated at Setu Bandh?

Summary of "Candle Light" – My Name is Cinnamon by Vikas Prakash Joshi

In this chapter, Cinnamon’s biological parents receive important and concerning news about his health. They learn from his adoptive parents that Cinnamon has a genetic condition that may cause him to lose his eyesight around the age of 40 and could also lead to hearing impairment. This revelation is deeply emotional for both the  parents, as they process the implications of his condition and think about his future.

The candlelight in the chapter symbolizes both vulnerability and hope, just as a candle flickers but continues to glow, Cinnamon’s journey is uncertain but still filled with love and strength. His adoptive parents’ concern and love for him are evident as they grapple with this information, reinforcing the theme that family is built on care and emotional bonds. The chapter highlights themes of resilience, unconditional love, and the importance of support in facing life’s uncertainties.

Reflection Questions

1. How do Cinnamon’s biological parent react to the news about his genetic condition?
2. What does the candlelight symbolize in this chapter, and how does it relate to Cinnamon’s journey?
3. How does this chapter highlight the difference between biological and emotional bonds in a family?
4. What can we learn from Cinnamon’s parents about handling difficult and uncertain situations?
5. How would you support a loved one if they were facing a similar challenge?

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

Sunbeam School Reflections - 1st December 2024

Cinnamon’s journey of self-discovery is one of growth and resilience, shaped by moments of doubt, struggle, and revelation. At first, he felt lost, unsure of who he was or where he belonged. Each challenge he faced—whether external or internal—pushed him to dig deeper, to confront fears and insecurities he had long ignored.  

There were moments of heartbreak but also joy as Cinnamon began to understand his true self. He learned to embrace his imperfections, find strength in vulnerability, and see obstacles not as barriers but as opportunities to grow.  

By the end of his journey, Cinnamon wasn’t just someone who had found answers—he had found peace in the questions. His story is a reminder that self-discovery is messy and beautiful.

Simrat Kaur 
9th 
Sunbeam English School Bhagwanpur 

Marta Vieira da Silva - Sakshi Jain (Journalist)

Marta Vieira da Silva

One inspiring female football player who has left an indelible mark on the sport is Marta Vieira da Silva, commonly known as Marta. Hailing from Brazil, Marta's exceptional talent and dedication have not only earned her numerous accolades such as FIFA World Player of the Year (first win) in 2006 and subsequent victories in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010, Olympic Silver Medal (2004), Golden Ball at FIFA U-19 Women's World Championship, UEFA Women's Champions League and many more. 

Marta's journey to becoming one of the greatest female football players is marked by resilience and determination. Despite facing challenges and stereotypes associated with women in sports, she persevered, showcasing unparalleled skills on the field. Marta's commitment to her craft has not only shattered gender barriers but has also redefined the possibilities for women in football.

Moreover, Marta's leadership both on and off the field serves as a beacon of empowerment. She actively advocates for gender equality in sports, using her platform to address issues such as equal pay and opportunities for female athletes. Marta's commitment to social causes amplifies her impact, making her not just a football icon but a symbol of positive change.

~Sakshi Jain (Journalism Club)

There are many dimensions to every person - Aria Gupta

Picture Courtesy: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_Dimension

You might be wondering - why I haven't written this article in story form. It's because this topic has many details to consider. And I think that it's hard to convert it into a good story.

Moving on to the topic, we first need to define the meaning of dimensions. Dimensions may imply different things to different people. It could refer to their life responsibilities (mother, friend, etc.) or personality characteristics and traits. Ultimately, the dimensions of a person cover the numerous qualities that comprise a person. 

In my opinion, every role has a dimension that includes attributes. A student's role, for example, may involve characteristics such as procrastination or being studious (the traits vary from person to person). These characteristics and dimensions - create and define the individual's identity and contribute to their unique personality. People's dimensions can also include their talents and abilities, such as creative or intellectual ability. attributes

I won't say that our physical appearance is counted as a dimension; in reality, a person's true worth lies within their character and capabilities. These dimensions shape how individuals interact with the world around them and influence their behaviour and decision-making. 

Moreover, they play a crucial role in determining one's personal and professional growth, as they impact one's motivation, resilience, and overall well-being. Therefore, it is essential to recognise and nurture those dimensions to embrace and express one's true self.

To sum it up, dimensions refer to various roles of a person, including different life responsibilities, personality traits, talents, and abilities. They shape behaviour, decision-making, motivation, resilience, and overall well-being and are crucial for personal and professional success. Recognising and nurturing these dimensions is essential.

Aria Gupta

Grade VI || Gyanshree School