Mindfulness is a practice; and even though you don’t always see it, the experience will ripple forever.
We all need a little pause now and then and so, we invite you to nurture mindfulness with us and your family – at home.
This project is all about celebrating your mates in a unique way – not because you’re going to buy them something, but because you can grow your friendship by taking some time to pay attention to who they are and the things they like. There may be moments when it feels a little awkward but remember to keep practicing because celebrating your friends will get easier with practice!
TKG.CELEBRATION OF FRIENDSHIP
Here’s what we are going to do:
- Find a journal or notebook to keep your notes safe
- Pick a friend’s name
- Don’t tell!
- Take at least two days or three meetings to pay close attention to your friend
- Write a reflection, draw a picture, or create a representation of your notes and observations – something that you are willing to share with your friend and their families!
What you’ll need from Home:
Journal or note-taking process
Someone to facilitate the choice of a secret friend so it remains anonymous. You can also just pick someone and keep it a secret until you present your reflection.
Your representation can be in any medium or method that feels authentic to you. You might use craft supplies, found objects, or legos!
HOW TO – CELEBRATION OF FRIENDSHIP (SECRET SANTA WITHOUT THE MATERIALISM)
What/How – this is over a 3-4 day timeframe but adjust as needed. Please take photos of the process and final products for preservation and documentation. Celebrate!
Follow your class or family rhythms to:
| Gather Materials | A small notebook or journal to keep notes, that will be taken over a couple of days, safe. |
1st Meeting |
| Introduce the Project | Have you ever heard about a Secret Santa? Members of a group of friends, or family draw random names to decide who they will “gift,” anonymously. After opening their present, the giftee has to guess which member of the group was their Secret Santa. It’s a U.S holiday tradition where the guessing is a lot of fun. Let’s take a different approach to this project – one that helps us grow our friendships. |
1st Meeting |
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Draw Names |
Facilitate drawing names, encourage keeping a secret! Use your curiosity and imagination to get to know your friend or observe your family. |
1st Meeting |
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Observations |
Pay attention to your “body radar” or, your senses. Look for the things you might otherwise miss. Watch your friends carefully, take notes about what you see, hear, and feel through your radar. |
Ongoing |
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First Draft |
Take a first pass at your documentation |
3rd Meeting |
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Revise & Edit |
Is there anything you want to fine-tune before you present to your friend? |
3rd Meeting |
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Finalize |
Put the finishing touches on your presentation |
4th Meeting |
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Present |
Make a circle (whatever feels right – in person or online) with your people and share your observations with your friends. Feel the appreciation when it is your turn! It doesn’t have to be out loud if you are not comfortable with that. |
4th Meeting |
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KEY LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES |
Community Building – Self Awareness – Writing – Creative Thinking – Reflection | |
“You cannot transmit wisdom and insight to another person. The seed is already there. A good teacher touches the seed, allowing it to wake up, to sprout, and to grow.” -Thich Nhat Hanh