Collective Stories from our Forgiveness & Peace Journey

The Year of Generosity: A Journey of Love and Compassion

In the school year 2023-2024, students around Greater Beirut embarked on a transformative journey of learning and practicing the true meaning of love. Guided by the principles of Forgiveness and Peace taught by Al Shabiba Risala, these students not only deepened their understanding of personal and communal harmony but also translated these lessons into impactful actions. Despite living in a country fraught with political, security, environmental and economic challenges, they demonstrated how love can overcome adversity and make a real difference in their communities.

Feeding the Hungry: A Lesson in Charity

The journey began with the Grade 7 students, who immersed themselves in the concept of charity. They learned that love is not just about words but about taking concrete steps to help those in need. They organized a food drive, gathering a variety of foods to share with the less fortunate. Through their efforts, they discovered that love involves providing sustenance and comfort to those who are hungry, embodying the true essence of generosity.

Quenching Thirst: Refreshing Hearts and Minds

As the year unfolded, the Grade 8 students focused on addressing the need to quench thirst. Their project involved distributing refreshing glasses of orange juice to parents picking up their children from school. However, their gesture went beyond just providing a drink; it was a message of encouragement. Alongside the juice, they handed out notes with uplifting messages such as, "You are strong, you can do it, never give up, you can pass the challenges." This simple act of kindness demonstrated that love also means offering support and comfort during difficult times, lifting spirits through thoughtful actions.

Providing Clothing: Meeting Immediate Needs

Grade 8 students further illustrated their grasp of love by organizing a clothing drive. They reached out to all school grades, collected and sorted clothes, and planned a distribution event. When turnout was initially low, they took their efforts to the streets of Mrayjeh in southern Beirut, personally inviting those in need to select clothing. This direct engagement underscored that love involves meeting immediate needs with compassion and dedication.

Caring for the Environment: A Legacy of Stewardship

In another corner of the school, Grade 10B students turned their attention to environmental stewardship. Understanding the importance of a healthy planet, they undertook a project to plant trees near their school. Initially advised to plant three trees, they exceeded expectations by planting nine. Their actions reflected a deep commitment to the environment, demonstrating that love extends to caring for the world we share. By nurturing the environment, they contributed to a more sustainable and healthier community.

Combating Bullying: Promoting Empathy and Understanding

Grade 10A students addressed the pressing issue of bullying with a focus on empathy and understanding. They organized and led an interactive session for Grade 4 students, educating them about bullying, its various forms, and effective responses. Their initiative aimed to foster a safe and inclusive environment, reinforcing the idea that love involves protecting others from harm and promoting mutual understanding. By tackling this critical issue, they worked to create a more empathetic and supportive school community.

Personal Reflections

As staff members of Al Shabiba Risala, we have had the privilege of witnessing these inspiring acts of love and compassion firsthand. These students’ actions remind us of the powerful teachings found in Matthew 25:35-37, where Jesus speaks of meeting the needs of others as a reflection of true love: "For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me."

These stories of practical love reflect the essence of these teachings. They show us that love is not only about understanding but also about action. Through feeding the hungry, quenching thirst, providing clothing, caring for the environment, and addressing bullying, these students have embodied the true spirit of compassion in the midst of the challenging situations in Lebanon where the needs is big on different aspects.

We hope these stories inspire you to embark on your own journey of peace and love. Just as these students have shown, starting with peace within ourselves and extending it to others can create a ripple effect of kindness and understanding even in the midst of hardship. Embrace the lessons of love and let them guide your actions, fostering a more compassionate and connected world.

ASR team

2024 - Lebanon