One of the key positive actions toward continual self-improvement is broadening one’s horizons. This process requires openness, curiosity, and a willingness to step outside one's comfort zone. And who better to introduce this lesson than Maurice the Mouse, a beloved character with ideas ten times his size?
Addressing the Grade 1 class, Maurice speaks earnestly about seeing potential in each child and how important it is for them to awaken their power within.
After a short introduction, the students absorb another story of Lisa and her old train friend, Steamy. Once rusty and abandoned, Steamy has been transformed into a gleaming marvel by Lisa and her friends’ steadfast care. His grandeur now evokes awe in everyone who witnesses it.
"Every new thing one learns becomes a conduit to widen one's perspective and enhance one's understanding of the world. The essence then lies not merely in reaching the end goal but primarily in embracing the process."
News about Steamy’s transformation spread so widely that even the prestigious Steam Engine Train Museum directors took notice. They decide to invite Lisa to speak about Steamy. As Lisa prepares to meet with these distinguished people, she continues on her journey of self-improvement. She actively seeks the perspective of other people, embraces new experiences, and explores things from different angles.
After the story, first graders engage in a reflective exercise. They explore the Positive Circle, analyzing how Lisa’s positive thoughts of broadening her horizons lead to positive actions. Delving deeper, they make the important connection that positive actions translate into positive feelings about oneself.
Each student is then given a challenge. They are asked to think of something they want to learn or do to broaden their horizons. This could be playing a new instrument, mastering a foreign language, trying out for the school play, or traveling somewhere new. Essentially, it could be anything that fuels their curiosity and desire for growth.
At its core, broadening horizons is about continually pursuing learning opportunities. Curiosity has many benefits for kids and adults alike. Every new thing one learns becomes a conduit to widen one's perspective and enhance one's understanding of the world. The essence then lies not merely in reaching the end goal but primarily in embracing the process. There is always something new to learn, and every achievement is merely an invitation to begin again in a different direction.
Pasela is a digital product presented by Positive Action.
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