The mind is a field in which every kind of seed is sown.

— Thich Nhat Hanh

This session is the first of four that focuses on ethical development. This one uses the metaphor of a garden and growing plants to explore how it is that we can develop the positive qualities we want to see in ourselves. The youth engage in a continuum (spectrum) activity that introduces the concept of character. They brainstorm actions, traits, and emotions that are part of good character and consider how these can be nurtured and reinforced. The Faith in Action segment guides youth to imagine tools to help grow good character through their actions, and challenges them to use them.

Goals

This session will:

• Guide participants to identify components of good character

• Explore the process of human character development and our agency in it

• Prepare participants to nurture character traits and turn them into actions

Learning Objectives

Participants will:

• Consider a “seeds” metaphor to explore the possibility of nurturing good or bad character traits

• Make a connection between one’s character and one’s choices

• Differentiate and examine overlaps between bad and good character traits

• Apply our wholesome character traits to our actions in the world

• Optional: Consider how our brains and our thoughts affect our character

• Optional: Practice making ethical decisions