Knife
Today at Forest school, we were given a Knife each and were asked to present a tool talk, like you would present it to a child.
About the tool talk, its very similar to what Montessori education advocate. For children to use real materials and real tools.
To present to them in simple and clear way how to use the tool and to note the important guidelines to it.
According to Maria Montessori, a child has an absorbent mind, especially before 7 years of age and they dont learn like adults do, they absorb what they see. So when we adults show them or teach them, we have to think about the steps, order and exactly how and what to say to them so that its simple and clear as this is what they will remember it.
Children are capable of handling real tools and materials. However in our society, they hardly get to do it. Usually helper or adults will jump in to assist and keep the kids away from breakable, dangerous items and tools. So when we are educating, we will need to access our societal norm and kids may need more time to become confident and independent in using tools.
A knife is a significant tool, it allows human to use hands and tools to create things out of the imagination. It brings ideas to fruition and the power of the human mind is translated from abstract to concrete. Such power that is given to humans. However with great power comes great responsibility. With the same tool, it can build or destroy. With our minds, we can thing of constructive thoughts or thoughts that will destroy and harm ourselves or others. The tools we use is powerful, but yet the most powerful of all is the ability of the human mind. Therefore use it wisely.
Abdu'l Baha said: "When a thought of war comes, oppose it by a stronger thought of peace. A thought of hatred must be destroyed by a more powerful thought of love."
Fire
My first time starting an actual fire in the wild. Well I have seen my husband and boys played with fire, but I never got involved, I feel its too complicated and troublesome. But today I did it. I failed at the first attempt, being over confident. Thought of getting it done asap and we can pack up and go home. Little did I know, a fires needs care and nurturing. Step by step. My state of mind was also crucial. To think orderly, step by step, to start, maintain and stabilise the fire. I say its pretty therapeutic and I felt a sense of accomplishment when I finally suceeded the second time. Fire burns away the veils that blocks our vision, like the fire, I hope whatever that is standing in the way, my preconceived ideas and lack of confidence be burned away so that the future is clearer and brighter.
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