EDUCATING THE HEART A Bold Strategic Vision for BC’s Children and Youth
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Dear Friend, Make no mistake: the future is at stake. That’s the focus of the Dalai Lama Center for Peace and Education and it is in response to a question posed by His Holiness the Dalai Lama:
Why that question? The Dalai Lama has a goal: that we can achieve an Age of Dialogue and Peace by collectively and intentionally deciding to depart from century upon century of violence, poverty, and suffering. He is convinced that we can leave it in the past, and start by focusing on the heart-mind learning and development of children and youth. Emotional intelligence is part of a well-developed mind. When children are fully prepared for the challenges and opportunities they will encounter in their lives, when fact is informed by compassion and empathy, by an awareness of the interconnectedness of all people, and by consideration for the lives of others, the right choices are within reach. Renowned neurobiologist, Dr. Daniel Siegel M.D. puts it this way: “You can make the argument that the future depends on how well we develop the social and emotional areas of a child’s brain.” This is a compelling commentary, and it bespeaks the paramount importance of heart-mind learning. In many ways, British Columbia is uniquely positioned to be a leader in the heart-mind learning of children and youth. With leading researchers working with education and other sectors, the province has the potential to be an international example of caring communities raising compassionate and capable children. The Dalai Lama Center for Peace and Education is a unique global entity dedicated to educating the hearts of children and youth, and it is quickly gaining interest across the province and internationally. The Center’s role is clear: to ADVISE circles of influence, to EDUCATE the public, to CONVENE thought leaders and experts, and to apply RESEARCH that will advance both the knowledge and practice of heart-mind learning locally and globally. The Dalai Lama directed his question to an audience of people with the resources to make his vision a reality through inspired action. In truth, each of us can play a significant part in advancing this important work. We invite you to consider deeply the world you want for your children and grandchildren, and the best way that you can support this important work of preparing them for the future. Sincerely,
Brenda Eaton Chair, Board of Trustees
LYNN GREEN
“How do we educate the hearts of children?”
LYNN GREEN
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LYNN GREEN
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