Lessons from the Guru–Chela Tradition - Sunbeam School Suncity

After watching this episode, I understood the guru–chela (mentor–seeker) relationship as a living bond rather than just a title. The way Guru Nanak ji patiently prepared Bhai Lehna to receive the "spiritual baton" showed me that a real teacher quietly shapes a student's character over time—not through miracles, but through daily example, guidance, and trust.

Mayank Malani

The video made me reflect on my own attitude as a learner. Bhai Lehna's humility, obedience, and willingness to do any seva without questioning reminded me that authentic learning requires surrendering the ego and openness to correction. I realised that if I want real growth, I must accept feedback as Bhai Lehna did—seeing it as a blessing that polishes me, not as an insult.

Adwik Gupta

I was especially moved by the idea that Guru Nanak ji chose Bhai Lehna as his successor based on inner spiritual merit rather than blood relations or social status. In a world where preference is often given to family and power, this decision taught me that leadership should be given to the most deserving and sincere person, no matter their background. It challenged me to rethink how I judge people and to value inner qualities over external labels.

Ajeya Vardhan

The visuals of Guru Nanak ji travelling to different places and interacting with people of many beliefs helped me see oneness in a practical way, not just as a big word. Seeing him engage respectfully in dialogue with diverse communities made me realise that I must also listen to and learn from those who think differently, instead of trying to prove myself right all the time. This inspired me to see diversity in my classroom and society as an opportunity to grow spiritually.

Divyansh Kumar

The episode changed the way I look at success in life. Guru Nanak Ji and Bhai Lehna showed that the highest success is not money or fame, but living a life of service, compassion, and truth. Their example motivated me to set goals that include helping others, being honest, and staying connected to the Divine, rather than chasing only marks, careers, and material achievements.

Naman Kumar Aryan

Sunday Reading Session and YES Workshop - Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Today, we learnt about the foundations of effective communication in the YES workshop by Kartik Sir. I learnt about the importance of maintaining humility and sensitivity to become a better speaker. Other than this, being alert to factors like positive body language, eye contact, and smiling makes us connect better with our audience.

Then, in the chapter Artificial Environment, we learnt how urban spaces can actually contribute to preserving animals, especially the endangered ones. I learnt about agrarian deserts, which changed my idea about deserts being arid regions and lacking trees.

Shristi Prasad

VII

Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

In today's YES workshop by Karthik Sir, we got to learn about the importance of maintaining communication skills. We also learnt about the various essentials of communication, like sensitivity, humility, and sounding compelling enough to ensure effective, positive communication. If one maintains eye contact, body language, appropriate hand gestures, and a smile on one’s face, along with being aware of the content one is speaking, one will engage the crowd better. To become a better public speaker, besides understanding one’s crowd or audience, one needs to develop these qualities in oneself.

In the chapter Artificial Environment, Brinda Ma’am read out the disadvantages and advantages of artificial environments that affect animals. Besides talking about pet houses, cages, and zoos, we also learnt about deserts like agrarian deserts that have thousands of plants and house several animals, making us call them animal farms.

We also learnt about the role of animals in human activities like farms for grazing and logging. Sometimes animals are not happy because no one asks them whether they wish to work or not, so we as humans should not lose our humanity while forcing animals to work for us.

Gauri Agrawal

VIII

Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

In a world where AI is taking the lead in guiding the generation on how to present themselves suitably—be it an office presentation, a simple debate, or a speech delivery at the morning assembly—genuine human communication is suffering a setback. Humans are failing to communicate their emotions to each other through words. Wasn't verbal communication a primitive method among humans? So why are we failing today?

We had Kartik Sir in the Sunday YES session with us to tell the generation the basic pointers for effective communication—things like sensitivity, humility, being astute, sounding compelling enough, and such that one remembers our words and understands us.

Today's generation is indeed very sensitive. So, to convey our thoughts without hurting anyone's emotions is a big deal. Social media is a boon and a bane that way. Chatbots are there to emotionally sustain us as well as destroy us. Therefore, it is indeed very important to ensure that we are becoming better at communicating so that we have less dependency on AI for communication.

Lavanya Jaiswal

VIII F
Sunbeam Bhagwanpur

Meaningful Sunday School Session - Sunbeam Ballia

Today I attended a Good School Alliance session with Kartik Sir, Jugjiv Sir, and Manisha Ma’am. They spoke about good communication, empathy, kindness, and being humble with everyone. In the end, there was a question-and-answer session where students shared their doubts, and they answered them with a lot of patience and clarity. It was a simple but very positive and inspiring session.

— Ishika Singh, 9th A

In today’s session, firstly, Mr Jugjiv Singh Sir introduced the great personality, Mr Kartik Sir. He told us about the “Construct Communication Paradigm,” in which he explained the types of communication. He also told us about:

1. Competition

2. Noise

3. Deficit

4. Sameness

5. Apathy

6. AI

7. Global Stage

And the main topic of today’s session was communication.

This session was really awesome 

I really thank Mr Jugjiv Singh Sir for giving us this amazing opportunity to learn new things and improve our vocabulary 

— Talat Bano, 5C, Sunbeam School Ballia

Today’s Good School Alliance session was the most unique and interesting session. In the first session, we had a very special personality with us — Mr Kartik Sir. He is a writer, educator, and mental health advocate. The first session was about “Effective Communication.” In this class, I learnt about empathy, kindness, and many more values. This class helped me communicate with people positively.

We also had Mrs Brinda Ma’am. She read the story “Inner Life of Animals.” Through this story, we learnt about the feelings of animals. I also learnt how deep and strong the emotions of animals are, just like humans.

At the end, I would like to share that both the sessions were really inspiring, knowledgeable, and full of emotions.

 Thank you!!

— Janhvi Singh, 5C

Reflections of Growth from the Retreat and Sunday School Session- Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

 

Reflection Sunbeam Lahartara

Sunbeam Hostel lahartara

Students of Sunbeam Lahartara shared that the retreat and Sunday School session offered them a meaningful space to slow down, connect, and learn with intention. Through guided reflections, interactive discussions, and values-based activities, they discovered the power of listening deeply—to themselves, to their peers, and to the lessons within each story.

They expressed that the retreat helped them build clarity, confidence, and a sense of inner calm. The Sunday School session strengthened their understanding of compassion, gratitude, and mindful action. Many felt inspired by the stories shared, noticing how simple narratives can open doors to self-awareness and better decision-making.

Collectively, the students highlighted that the experience taught them to think with openness, speak with kindness, and act with purpose—learnings they hope to carry into their classrooms, homes, and daily lives.

Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

Learning Through Stories - Lotus Petal Foundation

 

Reflection My Good School.docx.pdf 

Students from Lotus Petal Foundation participated in an inspiring My Good School session. This session featured two lively book-reading activities that sparked curiosity, creativity, and meaningful reflections. Students discussed the lessons they learned and how reading together fostered open conversation, empathy, and joy in learning.

Honesty: A Timeless Value from the Good School Session- Sunbeam School, Ballia

Today's Reflection on Good School Session

Today's session was truly inspiring and encouraging. In our reading session with Manisha Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir, we explored the book “ईमानदारी” (Honesty) through the exemplary lives of Lal Bahadur Shastri, Abraham Lincoln, and others. We learned about the significance of honesty in a student’s life and how parents and teachers can instill this value in young minds.

One key takeaway that resonated with me was: “We should always be honest and follow the right path, regardless of what others think about us.” This lesson has left a lasting impact on me, and I am grateful for the opportunity to reflect on it.

Thank you to Manisha Ma’am and Jugjiv Sir for such a thought-provoking session.

Ifra Wahid, IX-F
Sunbeam School, Ballia

Jai Hind, dear readers

I am Aayush Kumar Singh, writing this reflection on the session taken by Manisha Khanna Ma’am.

In today’s session, Manisha Ma’am shared how people still carry deep faith and honesty. She told us how, during namaz, shopkeepers leave their shops open and go for prayer. Customers come, take what they need, and leave the money there before going.

This really touched me because it shows that even in today’s world, where we often hear about dishonesty and selfishness, there are still places and people where trust is alive. It is inspiring to see that values like honesty, responsibility, and respect are still being practiced today.

The session reminded me that trust is not just an old value but something we can live by even now. If we act truthfully and responsibly, we can also strengthen this culture of faith and honesty in our surroundings.

Aayush Kumar Singh, X-A
Sunbeam School, Ballia

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.

Beyond Marks: Raising World Ready Children - Sunbeam School, Lahartara

 

Confident Kids, Strong Futures - MY GOOD SCHOOL .pptx by students of Sunbeam School, Lahartara and posted on their behalf by Manisha Khanna, our GSA Principal.

In today's fast-paced and competitive world, every parent must ask themselves an important question: Are we only preparing our children for exams, or are we also preparing them for life? Good marks may open doors, but confidence, emotional strength, decision-making skills, effective communication, and strong moral values help children thrive. These qualities empower them to handle challenges, build meaningful relationships, and navigate the complexities of adulthood independently. A balanced upbringing means teaching children not just how to study, but also how to live with purpose, empathy, and resilience. Let's move beyond textbooks and help our children become well-rounded individuals ready to face the world with strength and wisdom.

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 27th April 2025

Sunday School # 186

Discovering IKIGAI with Ms. Komal Khetal

The session, led by Ms. Komal Khetal, focused on the concept of Ikigai—a Japanese philosophy that helps individuals find purpose and meaning in life. She explained how aligning our daily choices and chores with our core values can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life. By identifying our Ikigai, we can make better decisions, stay grounded, and approach challenges with clarity. Ms. Khetal emphasised that when we face difficulties, acting in line with our values allows us to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

🌟 Finding Your Ikigai: A Journey to Purpose & Joy!

We had a fantastic session led by Komal Khetal from Dreamtime Learning School, where we dove deep into the beautiful Japanese concept of Ikigai—your reason for jumping out of bed in the morning!

🔑 Big Ideas That Stuck With Us

• Ikigai is about blending what you love, what you're great at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for

• Your Emotional Intelligence (EQ) plays a bigger role in success than IQ ever could

• Doing things because you enjoy them (intrinsic Motivation) beats doing them just for rewards or praise

• Self-reflection is the first step to building a life and career that truly fits you

💡 What We Explored

✨ Welcome to Ikigai

• Ikigai = "reason for being"

• It's about waking up excited and motivated

• Passion + Skill + Purpose + Livelihood = Ikigai!

🧠 The Power of EQ

• 90% of success? Yup, that's EQ talking!

• Understand yourself + connect with others = win-win

• Empathy, resilience, and adaptability are key in the real world

🎯 What Drives You?

• Intrinsic Motivation = Doing it because you love it

• Extrinsic Motivation = Doing it for the reward

• The first one lasts longer and feels way better!

🌳 The Ikigai Tree Activity

You all created your personal Ikigai trees! 🌱

• Roots = What you love

• Trunk = What you're good at

• Branches = What the world needs

• Fruits = What you can be paid for

⚖️ Passion vs. Practicality

• We talked about turning dreams into real-life plans

• Tips on having open conversations with parents about careers

• You can follow your passion and be practical—yes, both!

🚀 Be Future-Ready

• AI is changing the world—so how do we stay relevant?

• Build skills AI can't copy: creativity, empathy, and curiosity

• Stay flexible and open to new paths!

📌 What's Next?

• Complete your Ikigai trees 🖍️

• Reflect on your passions, values, and strengths.

• Join us for more My Good School sessions like MAP (Music, Art & Poetry) 🎨🎶

• Keep exploring who you are and what lights you up

📬 Ready to reflect? Reflection means taking a pause to look inward, thinking about what you felt, learned, and how it connects to your own journey. It's a powerful way to grow and discover more about yourself 🌱

We'd love to hear what sparked your curiosity in this session! Share your thoughts, insights, or even your Ikigai tree with Manisha via email- mk@learningforward.org.in. Your story might just inspire someone else too 💌✨

A Sunday Well Spent: Voices from Sunbeam Lahartara

 

A Heartwarming Glimpse into Our Sunday Session at Sunbeam School

Reflections Sunday School # 183

Episode 16 – "Gyan Bohit: Boat of Wisdom" from the Allegory: A Tapestry of Guru Nanak's Travels series:

We are delighted to share a wonderful summary of this Sunday’s session, beautifully presented by the students of Sunbeam School. Their creativity, depth of thought, and enthusiastic participation reflect the joy and genuine love they have for our Sunday School experience.

It’s truly inspiring to witness how these young minds express themselves so freely, embracing every opportunity to learn, collaborate, and grow. Their reflections speak volumes about the impact of a nurturing and engaging environment—one where curiosity is encouraged, and learning is filled with meaning and purpose.

We warmly invite you to join us and experience firsthand the reason behind the students’ affection for our Sunday sessions. Discover how a thoughtful blend of creativity, values, and interactive learning makes each Sunday truly special.

Sunbeam School Lahartara

Reflection of the week - Sunday 7th July 2024

Listen to the Podcast on YouTube

- From My Guide Inside -   

1. What was your takeaway from the session today? 

2. What would you call your My Guide Inside? 

3. How does your My Guide Inside help you? 

4. Share your thoughts and feelings. Show insight and connections to this quote from My Guide Inside (Book II) Chapter One:

    My guide inside of wisdom is "powerful knowledge." Wisdom will "grow with you and guide you."

- From Jataka Tales -     

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?    

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why?     

3. What learnings can we take away from the story today?   

4. How do parents name their children?

5. Where is Takksila located? What is its significance?

6. What is righteousness?

7. Moral Integrity

8. How would you tackle the problem if you were in the Bodhisattva's place? 

These are some suggestions you can choose from. Looking forward to seeing your wonderful and thoughtful reflections!     

You can email your reflections to - nk@learningforward.org.in

SUMMARY

The speakers emphasised the significance of education and self-discovery, sharing personal experiences and insights on inner wisdom, thought labelling, and the connection between thoughts and feelings. They discussed the intersection of Yoga and AI, the importance of personal experience and self-denial in storytelling and the path to enlightenment. The speakers highlighted the importance of embracing simplicity, compassion, and wisdom in making good choices and guiding us through life.

12.00 PM
We decided not to read the chapter from The Hidden Life of Trees and instead hosted an Open House to meet Ms Manish Khanna and discuss how we could better engage with Fellows and Interns. Kunal shared an update about the Impact Study, and we discussed how we could improve our program on Sunday and engage with a wider audience.

Refelctions & Questions - The Doon Girls School

Jataka Tales & The Hidden Life of Trees

How can trees create their own microclimate?

The author explains that trees create leafy humus that can store moisture, and their branches can slow winds and create calmer air within the forest. Over time, these conditions reduce evaporation and create moist soil with better water storage, allowing more trees to thrive.

 by (Sanskriti- VI)

In "The Peacock Wings," what I gather is that our life choices should prioritize goodness, embracing both the flaws and beauty of others.

by (Aadya- VI)

Woody Climate Control

When the annual leaffall of beech trees occurs, it creates an alkaline humus that has the capacity to store a significant amount of water.

by (Ibadat-VI)

People Should Value A Good Life - Shubhangi Kashyap

What is a good life?

It is more than just the accumulation of possessions or the attainment of fleeting pleasures, the good life is a tapestry woven from the threads of happiness, fulfilment and purpose. It’s about cherishing the simple joys that enrich our days and nourish our souls. 

The good life is not a destination, but a journey ...

A journey of discovery and growth…

“In life’s sweet dance, we find our song,

Each moment fleeting, yet ever strong,

Cherish the joy, embrace the strife,

For in the good life, we find true life…” 

 

Shubhangi Kashyap 

Grade- 9

Sunbeam School, Lahartara

Jataka Tales 📹 - Parth Tulsyan

What are Jataka Tales?

Sunday School Reflections From Jataka Tales- 

1. Why do we read about the Jataka Tales?

2. Did the story connect with you today, and why? 

3. What learnings can we take from the story "The Guilty Dogs"?

4. Thinking calmly and not hastily

5. Being Humble

 

Reading For Pleasure and more from Sunbeam School Lahartara

READING FOR PLEASURE

We say that books are our best friends. to become their friends, we have to read them.

Reading gives us the opportunity to build ourselves; it helps us stand in front of people confidently.

People say that real life is not similar to books; it is all rubbish. Books prepare us for our lives. I also prefer to read books because they help me to be more creative, confident, and charismatic from within.

WE GET LITERATE BY STUDYING, AND WE GET EDUCATED BY READING.                        

VAIBHAV JAISWAL  9D

LEARNING CAN ONLY HAPPEN IF THE LEARNING ATMOSPHERE IS POSITIVE

Life is no "brief candle" for me. It is a sort of "suffering torch," which I have a hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before passing it on to future generations.

I am also exploring as much as I can.

PRANVI CHANDRA IX D

THE IMPORTANCE OF TEACHERS IN OUR LIVES

Teachers are those who make children knowledgeable and cultured. A teacher is a beautiful gift given by God, as God is the creator of the whole world and a teacher is the creator of an entire nation. A teacher is such an important creature in the life of a student, who, through his knowledge, patience, and love, gives a strong shape to a student’s whole life. A teacher shares academic knowledge and ethical values and assimilates moral values that help us shape our personalities as better human beings. Teachers play a major role in shaping students' lives and futures.

ANIMESH KASHYAP-VIII-B

My Golden Journey With My Good School and more from Sunbeam Hostel Lahartara

My Golden Journey With My Good School

At first, I wasn't interested in reading. I thought that it was only a waste of time. Still, at the age of 12, my grandfather recommended a book. He said that if you like to study political science and history, you should read "Why I Assassinated Mahatma Gandhi" by "Nathuram Godse." I gave it a try, and I loved it. After that, I read more and more books, but when I joined My Good School, I felt that this was the place for me. Like we say, 'Birds with the same feather flock together'. For readers, My Good School is a paradise from my perspective. A famous quote by Fran Lebowitz that I carry in my mind is, "Think before you speak and read before you think." Every Sunday, I learn a new perspective to go with. A huge thanks to My Good School for this because the school teaches me values to live by.

Shaurya Chaturvedi VIIIB

How Learning Can Happen

Learning happens when we start experiencing. The learning process begins when we start experiencing things in our surroundings. Whether through reading or listening. When we read it, it is the biggest weapon to win all the battles of life. Listening to TED talks and podcasts increases our learning, and we learn new words.

Learning always makes a change in oneself, so never stop reading, writing, and listening.

"Learning is never done without mistakes and passion".

Diyanshu Agarwal IX-D

 

No one has achieved success in the past or present and has not done any hard work. Also, they had yet to achieve success on their first attempt. Success comes to those who find out their mistakes and improve on them. They take the time and opportunities to come; they create the opportunities and manage the time to do so. This is the best and easiest way to achieve good things in their lives. 

Anmol Kashyap VIII-B

Be true to yourself - Tulsi Karki

Picture Courtesy: https://www.consciouslifestylemag.com/true-self-finding-your-spiritual/

Being true to yourself means thinking and acting in ways that align with your values and feelings rather than the values of others. 

If you are living true to yourself, you feel confident in your identity and you are pursuing goals that you know will lead to your happiness. 

It is really important to be true to yourself it will be your guide to living a life for yourself. A life that is fulfilling and filled with all of the things that make you joyful and allow you to live a life of purpose, whatever that looks like for you. 

Hence, the only way to live your life happily is to be who you are, not caring what other people might think or say about it. 

People are going to judge you anyway, so you might as well forget society and be like others. But keep one thing in mind you have to be true to yourself at every moment of your life. 

Tulsi Karki

Pestalozzi Children's Village, India.

"All people have equal value" - Nishan Karki

                                 

Reflection from Sunday School

 

All lives have equal value. And so you say, 'Why do poor children die when other children don't? Why do some people have enough nutrition or reasonable toilets and other people don't?' So those basic needs that, through innovation, actually it's very affordable to bring them...to everyone.

~Bill Gates

Everyone in the world possesses many values. We, people, are the most intelligent beings created by God. God created us as social beings who can communicate, think, walk, eat, play and work by ourselves. God has provided us with many qualities like humanity, loyalty, kindness, honesty, compassion etc. We can look out for ourselves, do our work independently and do many more things. These qualities that we possess, make us unique, unlike animals and other creatures. They may possess some qualities, but not as many as we possess. Despite differences in region, birthplace, class, financial position, gender, age, caste, language and custom, people have equal values.

We may be rich, middle class or poor, but the value we possess are the same. We should use and show our values at the right time, place and situation. I have an example for this context- "There is a homeless guy, sitting on the side of a street. Two men were walking down the street, one poor and one wealthy. Despite being a wealthy man, he is rude and hard-hearted, unlike the poor, who is kind and generous. The rich man did not give attention to the homeless and walked away. But the poor man, in an instant, saw him and decided to help him. He went to a nearby shop and bought some food. He gave him food and a little money and spent time with him. The homeless guy thanked him. His eyes were all filled with tears."

This example shows that the poor guy has shown his value as a person and helped the homeless guy with some food and money. Thus we should use our values at the right time, place and situation. We should not hesitate to help someone in distress and difficulties because even a small help can change someone's life.

I believe that all lives have equal value. That all men and women are created equal. That everyone belongs. That everyone has rights, and everyone has the right to flourish. I believe that when people who are bound by the rules have no role in shaping the rules, moral blind spots become law, and the powerless bear the burden. ... I believe that entrenched social norms that shift society’s benefits to the powerful and its burdens to the powerless not only hurt the people pushed out but also always hurt the whole.

~Melinda Gates

 

Nishan Karki

Pestalozzi Children's Village, India

"APPRECIATION" - Geetankshi Tamta

https://goodschoolsalliance.godaddysites.com/my-good-school

Small word, huh? Sure is, but it holds a tremendous meaning.

Appreciation- A feeling or expression of admiration or gratitude. 

Is that it? I don't think so. 

We often describe 'appreciation' as a core value. When in reality, it's a habit.

Yup! You read it right. Appreciation is not a value. It's a habit which you have to practice daily. 

Now You must be wondering why you should practice appreciation? Shouldn't it come from the heart?

Well, yes, my wonderful readers, you are right. It should come from the heart. But for that too, you must be conscious enough to realize the good things happening around you. In a world full of negativity, consciously and willingly choosing to look at the bright side of everything is what makes appreciation a habit.  

To appreciate something, you should take the time and patience to realize its value, whether it's an opportunity, a thing, or even a person. You can't appreciate a three-course meal you get each day unless you stop complaining about the taste of the food or about how much you hate potatoes. And take time to realize how blessed you are to receive that meal. You won't be able to appreciate your friend's efforts if you won't stop complaining about their bad jokes or loud laugh. Take time and appreciate them for their companionship and support. Instead of being upset with your mother for not buying you that colour box, try appreciating her for her kindness and love for you.

The world can be a whole different place if everyone starts appreciating each other for all the good things they do instead of complaining about their faults; we have to be conscious of actions to make appreciation a habit.

And as Mahatma Gandhi said- 

Your beliefs become your thoughts,

Your thoughts become your words,

Your words become your actions,

Your actions become your habits,

Your habits become your values,

Your values become your destiny. 

So, let's start it today. From now on, each day take a few minutes from your day to sit alone. And with a deep breath, think of all the amazing things and people you can appreciate in your life. Trust me. It will make a huge difference [in a wonderful way]. 

P.S.- It is my first-ever blog.

Written by-

Geetankshi Tamta

(Brand, PR & Marketing Agent at My Good School)