Nourishing the Star within each Child

Each child is born with “a seed of spirit,” or a “star,” within. This seed contains the child’s essence. Some of the qualities within this seed are fullness, respect, dignity, integrity, excellence, peacefulness, harmony, maturity, completeness, and joy. (A.H. Almaas, Pearl of Essence)

It is this “seed” that forms a connection within each child to something greater than themselves. How close to this essence the child develops depends on how the seed is nourished. “There is very little knowledge and guidance in the modern world about how to develop into such a human being.” (A.H. Almaas)

It is important that we, as parents, guardians, and teachers, intentionally provide concrete learning situations and positive role modeling for learning to cooperate, collaborate, be compassionate, feel empathy, and be respectful and sensitive to individual differences. Children learn by watching.

Cherishing the Uniqueness of Each Child

Often called “virtues,” these qualities of essence give us the inner strength and guidance needed in experiencing life. There are many situations and experiences that may contribute to a temporary disconnection from essence. Some examples might be abuse and neglect, some sort of trauma, frequent exposure to violence, real or virtual-reality, or a sudden loss. Children need to share their feelings and concerns in a safe environment and be taught coping skills that are practiced and reinforced. If these feelings are not given a chance to be acknowledged, self-esteem and learning can be affected. Children’s primary way of communicating is through behavior. “They need adults to be good listeners to help heal their hearts.” (C.White, Kids Hurt Too)

In her book, The Soul of Education, Rachael Kessler shares seven gateways to help rediscover essence. "Each gateway begins with a yearning---a yearning that is sometimes fulfilled by merely being acknowledged, a yearning for experiences that can be fostered in homes and classrooms where the heart is safe and the soul is welcomed. These gateways are: the yearning for deep connection, the longing for silence and solitude, the search for meaning and purpose, the hunger for joy and delight, the creative drive, the urge for transcendence, and the need for initiation." In the following weeks we will explore each of these gateways and learn ways to nourish the star within our children as well as ourselves.

“The habits we form from childhood make no small difference, but rather they make all the difference.” - Aristotle

Shirley Rivera, Counseling: PS - Grade 5 / C.E: Gr. 3-5
*441-3839 *srivera@midpac.edu

Posted at 10:36 AM| Permalink