We learnt:
- if you are reading this, then you are in the top 8% richest people in the world.
- if you have a bed, a closet, a fridge and a roof over you head, then you are in the top 20% of the world's richest people.
- that we have everything we need, but others don't (we have more than enough)
- that we can change the world within our generation, and even in our life time!
Everyone was amazed with everything we learnt, and now we are hoping to help change the world to become a better place. We now know that if we donate a few un-needed things, we can change someone's life for good. The school is now trying to raise money for many other organisations.
The most enjoyable, but emotional part of the day, was when Gary and Aisa put on a play. It was about both of their lives in the Philippines and how it changed their lives when they were given shelter and an education. We were shocked on how they lived their lives and how grateful they are for "Bahay Tuluyan" - which means house of welcome.
Here is a rough picture of what it may look like in the Philippines. Many people are begging for the chocolate, as we pretended it was real food. We learnt how hard it was for them to get food, and how sad it was too. This activity made us feel really lucky and selfish too...since what we have is unimaginably much more of what they have.
By Simon and Mairead
Jess came home very enthusiastic about what you learnt from Gary and Aisa. I think it is really important to have reminders of how very very fortunate we are and to always look for opportunities to help others.
ReplyDeleteWell done on all the fundraising you are doing.
Lynda KS
Thanks, Lynda. It's also very energising for us as teachers to see how the students keenly engage in learning about social justice. They are inspiring and I believe some of the experiences they are having will guide their thinking always.
DeleteMrag Yore
It is SO important to be grateful for what we have- the love of our family, our faith, school, your amazing teachers and so many other 'things.' What a great way to learn about the Phillipines, and all other 3rd world countries, by having Gary and Aisa come and speak to you about their experiences. It makes us much more aware of the simple ways we can reach out and help others, and how much we really do have. Social justice should be a big part of our lives.
ReplyDeleteKeep it up Seniors, you are developing life long skills and memories that will serve you well.
Mrs Bellesini
I feel especially connected to Gary and Aisa because I met then both when I went too the Philippines. I walked the streets they walk and I saw the poverty that they and others experience every day. I saw how street people are treated and how difficult it is for them. I saw these two amazing young people at Bahay Tuluyan helping other young children and I have seen the amazing courage they have to travel far from their country to speak to others and tell their story. On Friday night I witnessed them tell their personal stories to a room with over 300 people in it. That is amazing courage and their confidence has grown through the support of Bahay Tuluyan and their connections in Australia. Reading your comments I know that they have made a difference in your lives.
ReplyDeleteSeniors, if you can walk through life respecting others and daring to stand for social justice, then you will continue to make a difference in our world. It will be a better place because you care and your teachers and those who love you will be proud to have been here at the turning point of your social understanding.
It was such an awesome experience to have. It was very emotional and heartbreaking to see things like that. We are SO lucky that we were born into rich or average families.
ReplyDeleteMairead P.