Embracing Different Cultures & Belief Systems

Sanderling students are accustomed to learning about other cultures’ holidays and celebrations. This past week was no different as teachers guided students through various traditions associated with Diwali, India's biggest and most important holiday of the year.  Hindus, Jains, Sikhs and some Buddhists enjoy this five day festival celebrating new beginnings, the triumph of good over evil and of inner light over darkness, and knowledge over ignorance.  The word “Diwali” spoken in the language of Sanskrit is “Deepavali”, meaning “Rows” (Avali) of lighted lamps (Diyas). With the guidance of their teachers, Sanderling students celebrated Diwali in multiple ways. They busily prepared for the “Festival of Lights” that honors Princess Lakshmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth and prosperity. They made and decorated clay pots (Diyas) to hold ghee-dipped wicks that serve to illuminate the two beautiful peacock-themed Rangolis (colorful rice designs) that the 4th, 5th, and 8th graders made. The peacock is an important symbol in Hinduism, the national bird of India, and a sign of good luck and prosperity.  Parent volunteers also participated by adorning students with henna designs, a body art tradition where intricate patterns are drawn on the hands and arms. For the children at Sanderling who celebrate Diwali at home, this experience demonstrated a school-wide respect for their own beliefs, and gave them the opportunity to share their culture with their peers.  For the children who do not celebrate Diwali at home, this experience fostered an increased tolerance and respect for others in society who are different from them. This is just one example of how Sanderling Waldorf School teaches children far beyond academics, and equips them with an expanded perspective in very rich and diverse ways.