Sometimes the setbacks are exactly what we need, to rise higher than the rest. These setbacks push us back and let us down but to win a good race, you need to take a few steps back, so that you win with full force.
It’s so often in life that we don’t get what we wished for, but that’s okay right? At that point, we may not always spot the silver lining but just like every cloud has a silver lining, every disappointment has a profound positive aspect to it that seems invisible but it’s always there, we just need to look deeper and find it.
It sounds so cliche and shallow when people say that everything happens for a reason. When you’re down in the dumps, the last thing you want someone to tell you is that it all happened for a good reason. It doesn’t feel true at that time. But maybe, they’re right. Maybe everything does happen in life for a reason and perhaps setbacks and challenges are exactly what we need for a brighter future. How can one ever face life if they’ve never truly felt how disappointment feels? How can someone reach for the stars if they’ve never really faced any challenge in life?
Time is precious. Each second is a blessing. Why spend that time wondering what could have been? It’s easier said than done ofcourse, but nevertheless it's the truth. The cold truth is, we don’t always get what we deserve, we don’t always get what we want, but life doesn’t wait for that. What matters more than the unchosen path is the one you’re on right now.
Challenges make us stronger. I’ve heard that plenty of times but today I feel it. If you’ve never failed an exam, you’ll never know how important it truly is to pass. If a bird never leaves its nest, despite knowing it could fall, how would it ever sail through the clouds? It feels right now as if life couldn’t be worse, it feels disappointing. It feels as if your heart could break into a million pieces. But it won’t. It won’t because you and I, we know the secret of life. That the only way to move forward is to take a step back.
Reflection questions based on Chapter 3, "The Red and the Black," from The Door-to-Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn:
1. Character Perception and Transformation
In this chapter, Carl assigns literary nicknames to his customers, such as "Mr. Darcy" and "Dr. Faustus." How do these names reflect Carl's perception of each individual, and what does this reveal about his character?
2. The Role of Books in Personal Identity
Carl believes that "books and people were made of the same substance." How does this metaphor deepen our understanding of the connection between literature and personal identity?
3. The Impact of Routine on Life
Carl's daily routine of delivering books is disrupted by unforeseen events. Reflect on how routines shape our lives and the challenges that arise when altered.
4. The Influence of External Perspectives
Schascha's presence introduces a fresh perspective into Carl's world. How does her viewpoint challenge Carl's established ways, and what does this suggest about the value of external influences in personal growth?
5. Community and Human Connection
The chapter emphasizes the importance of human connection through shared stories. Reflect on how literature fosters a sense of community and belonging among individuals.
(What small step can you take today to achieve your dream?)
"My Good School" Session: Cultivating Personal Growth through Dreams, Reflections, and Values
Key Insights:
Inner Strength and Stability:
Just as a tree draws strength from its roots, personal stability and resilience stem from one's purpose, passions, and self-belief. These foundational elements guide us through life's challenges.
Dreams as Catalysts for Growth:
Like the inspiring stories of Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr., dreams, when aligned with purpose, spark meaningful change and require perseverance and dedication to make a lasting impact.
Authentic Expression Over Judgment:
The meeting emphasised the power of expressing one's true self despite external judgment, highlighting the importance of finding strength in one's individuality and unique talents.
Key Topics Discussed:
The Tree Metaphor: Building Personal Strength
Jugjiv Singh used the metaphor of a fallen tree with weak roots to illustrate the importance of purpose and inner confidence in human development.
The discussion explored how "roots"—purpose, passion, and self-confidence—are a foundation during challenging times, helping individuals remain strong despite life's "storms."
Expressing Emotions and Talents: Antra's Journey
The group watched a video about Antra, a girl who overcame social isolation by embracing her talent for singing.
Lessons focused on the importance of authentically expressing oneself and having supportive mentors in fostering self-confidence.
Discussion centred on judging people by appearances versus recognising their inner strengths.
Book Discussion: "The Door-To-Door Bookstore" Continues
The discussion of Schascha and Carl's relationship revealed how books serve as a tool for personal growth, teaching empathy and the importance of understanding others.
Carl's advice to Schascha, that no single book pleases everyone, highlighted the importance of diverse perspectives for growth.
Dreams and Purpose: Hindi Session with Manisha
Manisha led an insightful session on dreams and their role in defining one's purpose, inspiring students with the examples of Abraham Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr.
The DREAM acronym (Dedication, Respect, Education, Attitude, and Motivation) was introduced, offering a framework for approaching dreams with purpose and intent.
A distinction was made between intrinsic motivation (inner drive) and extrinsic motivation (external rewards).
Ikigai Reflections and Student Projects:
Students shared their "Ikigai" trees, exploring their passions, talents, and aspirations.
Sahiba presented her Ikigai diagram, reflecting her dream of becoming a pilot.
The session also featured creative student projects that illustrated how they are beginning to apply the concepts of purpose and self-discovery in their lives.
Next Steps and Action Points:
Ongoing Reflection: Students are encouraged to continue reflecting on their growth through their Joy of Learning Diaries.
Youth Engagement: The GSA Council will lead initiatives to promote reading and peer leadership among students.
Upcoming Book Reading: Khushi will read from My Good School at a Friday evening (5:30 PM) session.
Dream and Ikigai Reflections: Students will create reflections and diagrams to share, with Chetan offering feedback.
New Initiative: Sandeep announced the development of Dreamtime's My Good School, in collaboration with a partner organisation.
I'd love to hear your reflections on today's session. ๐ Kindly take a moment to share your thoughts and insights by writing an email to mk@learningforward.org.in, or feel free to leave a comment below our post. ✍️ Your ideas and feedback are truly valuable, and I can't wait to read them! ๐ฌ๐
Students of Lotus Petals Foundation explored Ikigai; they uncovered passions aligned with purpose and strength.
Each step brought them closer to a meaningful life filled with joy, direction, and inner drive
