Thought of the Week 4-8 November Diwali Thought of the Week 4-8 November

Diwali-Festival of Lights In pairs or groups discuss: Why is light is such a powerful symbol? Why is it used in so many religions, organisations, cultural events? Why is it often used as a symbol of good? Why is darkness often used as symbol of evil? Buddhism The Divine Light, prayer candles, the clear-light mind. Christianity Jesus the Light of the World, Paschal candles, prayer candles. Islam The Mountain of Light, angels, the Path of Light Judaism Ner Tamid, menorah, Hanukkah

Diwali in Trafalgar Square https://www.truetube.co.uk/film/festival-light-diwali Watch the clip and discuss the following questions: What does Diwali celebrate? What are the traditions associated with Diwali? How does this compare with festivals that you celebrate?

Be a light in the darkness Diwali is a time to reflect on and evaluate thoughts, words, and actions over the past year. It is a time to acknowledge and better understand prejudices, negative behaviours and bad habits. Diwali is also a time to reflect on the various ways we can helpothers and shine our light out into the world. In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, Diwali is a reminder and an opportunity to "Be the change you want to see in the world!” Is it important to reflect on your behaviours and beliefs? Why?

Growing up in India There are approximately 60 million child labourers in India It is estimated that most, if not all, of the 87 million children not in school in India work as paid labourers, undertake housework or agricultural labour or other low paid work. Discuss in your groups how we can help children across the world living in poverty Take time to reflect on the lives of young people across the world. ND and MT were in India this time last year and witnessed first hand the impact of child poverty. Consider charities and fair trade to support children across the world.