Hi Everyone,

,

This week I was talking to two students who had a ‘falling out’ over an incident at lunchtime. They were very sad because they have been friends for many years. As each student was able to explain what happened from their own PERSPECTIVE, while they listened to each other, it became apparent that they were seeing the situation from different viewpoints. Further discussion revealed that it occurred due to their differing personalities and way of looking at things.

Once they understand each other’s PERSPECTIVE, we discussed how each student could have handled things differently. The students then moved closer together and shared what they liked about each other. The discussion finished with smiles and hugs, and a new understanding and respect for each other.

WE CHOSE TO SIT ON THE ‘BUDDY’SEAT’ AS WE HAD THIS DISCUSSION – A WONDERFUL PLACE WHERE FRIENDSHIPS AND UNDERSTANDING CAN GROW!

Understanding others does not mean that you have to agree with their feelings or point of view. Instead, it means that you recognise their point of view, and accept that it is different from yours and try to understand how the other feels. You may still have to do difficult things that others do not agree with, but hopefully, both you and they understand that.

The ability to understand how a situation appears to another person and how that person is reacting cognitively and emotionally to the situation is a way of 'STANDING IN THE SHOES OF ANOTHER'. In other words, it's the ability to put ourselves in the place of someone else while recognizing their point of view, experience, and beliefs.

Many things mould our PERSPECTIVE/HOW WE SEE THINGS in various situations – our culture, life experiences, upbringing, exposure to pleasurable or traumatic experiences, our friendships, etc…..

So let’s encourage our kids to EMBRACE DIFFERENCES, INCLUDING DIFFERING PERSPECTIVES. HOPEFULLY THEY WILL DEVELOP UNDERSTANDING, EMPATHY AND RESPECT.

If you are in the office area have a look at the year 5/6 artwork showing PERSPECTIVE in drawing!

Below are some pictures. Have fun with your families as you look at them from DIFFERENT PERSPECTIVES!

Take care & stay safe and well!

Robyn Mulholland (School Chaplain)

robyn.mulholland@education.vic.gov.au

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