12/6-12/12
With only two weeks left of the session and intriguing cultures and religions to learn about, heroes in both studios are focused. They are fascinated by what they are learning and quick to share their latest discoveries.
In the Spark Studio… we continue to celebrate different holidays and explore the associated traditions. Heroes are fascinated by why these holidays are celebrated; from celebrating faith and heritage to celebrating a peaceful future and hope of a prosperous life. We have discovered a celebration of the Hero’s Journey within a variety of cultures and religions. So far heroes have explored Hanukkah, Diwali, Kwanza, Chinese New Year, Bodhi Day, and more. They have tried pan de chocolate, macaroons, stroop waffles, biscoff, and shortbread…yum!
Fascination with snow is sure to follow the first snow! Heroes were immediately busy building snowmen and having a snowball fight. One hero exclaimed, “Look! It’s not a snow angel. It’s a foot angel!”
As the Spark heroes’ focus and learning grows, so too does their ability to guide one another. This week they were challenged to lead morning tribe time completely on their own, without any guide involvement. They prompted one another and sought each other for support when stuck. The guides didn’t say a word. Later in the day, a hero was getting frustrated while doing a writing work. He said, “I think I can do better!” After multiple attempts the frustration continued. A fellow hero approached him and said, “I really like your work. It looks good.” The guide’s role is clearly shifting and the heroes are turning to one another for support and strength.
In the Fire Studio…The heroes are in full preparation mode. With just a few days to plan and prepare for their exhibition holiday party, focus is intense for most. The variety of challenges in this quest (food, art, entertainment, research etc) has allowed for many heroes to find something they are passionate about within the religion/culture they are studying. While some are creating props and costumes, others are designing and printing 3D models. While some are decorating a room creating lovely ambiance, others are reciting the mantras of their religion. It is providing an outlet for their creative genius. It’s been so fun to watch!
Several squads enjoyed visiting stores featuring foods from other countries. Sampling foods and preparing them for the exhibition was tasty and enjoyable. Getting to know the shop owners and hear their stories was fascinating.
As ever, opportunities for personal growth were abundant this week. Working in teams presents many occasions for growth and stretching and patience and synergy. We also looked at identifying the internal triggers Mrs Distraction presents and attacked goals from a new angle; focusing on the beliefs we can develop from which our goals would be a natural outcome. Due to intense focus, some heroes have already reached their session excellence goal. Others are still striving to do so.
It is a delightful moment to observe a hero intently focused on their work because they are truly fascinated by what they are learning. These moments have been plentiful this session. It is joyful to see how much your heroes enjoy learning about religions and cultures different from their own.