Compassion, Courage, Independence

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Post Five of series  “It is not enough to be compassionate, you must act.”14th Dalai Lama

Tenzin’s Deer by Barbara Soros

Pre-view: Tenzin, a young Tibetan boy, finds and cares for a wounded deer until the deer he names, Jampa, (Loving Kindness) is strong enough to return to life on his own. This tender story introduces us to the values of kindness, internal strength, and compassion as held by the Tibetan people. It demonstrates the importance of respecting and caring for nature as well as the ability to “let go” in order to move forward in life.

PERSONAL TAKE AWAYS

1)   Service Learning – Effective service learning focuses both on relationship building and preparing those who you serve with the lessons, tools, and confidence to move forward independently, grow as an individual, and be a supportive member of a group.  Tenzin was willing to care for and help Jampa in his time of need. Tenzin also realized that part of caring included letting Jampa be self-sufficient when he became strong enough to care for himself.  As we embark on new service projects let’s remember that the goal is to help, support and to provide others with the knowledge and skills to improve their lives.

2)   Letting go – If we provide love and care, and model responsibility and courage, those who we care for will be ready for independence and a new chapter in life.  It was hard for Tenzin to let Jampa return to life on his own, but he knew it was the right thing to do and that Jampa was prepared. As a mother of a rising high school senior, this story was very timely. It takes courage to let go, but if I have instilled responsibility and independence in my son, all will be fine… the care and love will always be present.