During our recent study on ancient Hebrews, the 6B history class enjoyed a period replete with mindfulness activities. Through contemplative reading, we explored one of the religious accounts of how the world is believed to have been created. I read the first few chapters of the Book of Genesis out loud, and subsequently the students were encouraged to share with each other their thoughts on the words and phrases that stood out for them, thus practicing to be more focused and staying in the present moment. Having passionately shared their viewpoints about this world creation story in small groups, the sixth graders further learned that in many parts of the world children are not fortunate enough to have the opportunity to question or even express their opinions. Listening to calming, soft music, the students then closed their eyes and reflected on how fortunate they are to have the freedom of speech, the right to freely communicate opinions and ideas, the privilege which often tends to be taken for granted. Our history period came to an end after the students quietly reflected on this important concept by writing a few sentences expressing their immediate feelings on the topic in their mindfulness journals. Here are a few excerpts:

“I am so blessed … every day I wake up and am so happy that I can live and breathe and speak and go to school without living in fear, that I or my family will be punished for my learning.”

“I am very grateful for having freedom and the ability of making my own choices here in the United States. I’m glad the United States believes in freedom of speech and freedom of religion.”

“I am grateful to be allowed to talk freely without getting punished …”