“We shall walk together on this path of life, for all things are part of the universe and are connected with each other to form one whole unity.” – Dr. Maria Montessori

Of the many values that we try to promote at St. Paul’s, one of the most important is service to others. Dr. Montessori dedicated her life to the service of others, working primarily with children who had the fewest resources and least social standing.

Helping others and sharing our blessings is an intrinsic piece of the Montessori education and therefore of our community. These acts of service can range from something small, like an older child helping a younger child button their coat, to something much larger, like our recent coin drive in support of Heifer International. Our collection drive brought in over $200 and allowed us to purchase a sheep, bees, chickens, ducks, and geese for families in developing nations. These small gifts will change the families’ lives by allowing them to grow their own small farms and provide educational opportunities to their children.

When we help others, it brings about a sense of joy and rightness in our lives. We feel like we are accomplishing a mission that is much greater than ourselves and it helps light that inner spark that drives us ever-forward.

“Joy, feeling one’s own value, being appreciated and loved by others, feeling useful and capable of production are all factors of enormous value for the human soul.” – Dr. Maria Montessori

Another way in which some of our students care for their community is by entertaining the residents at Meridian Care on Grayson. Every year, as we get close to Christmas, our choral students visit Meridian Care to perform a selection of songs and carols for the residents. The staff and residents always enjoy having our students visit and the choristers get a chance to brighten someone else’s day and see the value of serving others.

Asking your child how they helped someone or how someone helped them can be a great way to spark a conversation on the way home. Once you get started, it’s easier to count the many ways in which we can all help make the world a little brighter every day.