Monthly Reflection: Qudrat (Power) – On Teachers

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Many years ago my husband and I drummed up a list of universal conversation topics because when we were in culturally diverse get-togethers, we found it tricky to land on a subject that everyone in the group could talk about. I don’t remember the whole list, but I do know that education was something we all had stories about–whether we were home schooled, went to private or public school, whether we addressed our teachers by their first names, last names or something else entirely, whether there were reasons for missing school, for schools to close, causes for schools to celebrate–everyone had something to share.

Perhaps, like me, you also cherish memories of your favourite teachers; those radiant souls who saw your unique talents and capacities and encouraged you; those who pushed you to reach for excellence; those who were kind when you needed kindness most. The role teachers play in the advancement of society, whether by teaching full time or leading a children’s class, is highly significant.

October 31st is World Teacher’s Day. Della’s article of thanks to teachers, penned a few years ago, is still relevant. To celebrate the selfless efforts of teachers, this year we released a special Deck of Questions video. I hope you enjoy watching it as much as I did!

These youth from Adelaide also sing out words of Baha’u’llah about the importance of teachers:

Blessed is that teacher who shall arise to instruct the children, and to guide the people into the pathways of God, the Bestower, the Well-Beloved.

This week it was also a joy to see a video, published by the Australian Baha’i Community, about a children’s festival that was held in Darwin and that was focused on the theme of service. The children and young people involved explored what service means to them and what it looks like in their everyday lives. The festival was infused with music, joy, learning and oneness. Take a look:

These are just a few recent resources about teachers and the preciousness of children. We have a robust collection of articles, videos, and audio for parents, caregivers and children’s class teachers on Baha’i Blog and we hope you’ll check it out.

Before I wish you a happy Month of Power I’d like to share these justice themed word games Cherie has put together as part of our library of downloadable content. They’re for kiddos, but I think youth and grown-ups might enjoy them too!

Hidden message word search puzzle about justice

Justine themed word search puzzle

Justice cryptogram puzzle

Thanks for following along and we’ll see you in 19 days!

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Sonjel Vreeland

In her innermost heart, Sonjel is a stay-at-home parent and a bookworm with a maxed out library card but professionally she is a museologist with a background in English Literature. She currently lives on Prince Edward Island, an isle in the shape of a smile on the eastern Canadian coast. Sonjel is a writer who loves to listen to jazz when she's driving at night.