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Moral Compass Unit Introduction

Last updated 10 months ago
5 questions
Why are we driven to help others, and how does serving affect us?

How can life experiences shape our values?
1

How can life experiences shape our values?

0

What is the most helpful thing we can do for others?

“I serve because it works!” “To end hunger in America.” “Because every child should have the chance to be a rocket scientist.”

Above, SERVE Philadelphia volunteers share some of the reasons they are motivated to help others—they point out that service accomplishes something worthwhile and can solve problems. But as you read their blog entries and see their wide smiles, you realize that helping others also makes us feel good about ourselves. Why are many individuals driven to help others?

For many of us, the reason lies in some youthful experience of our own; people often have an urge to protect others from the hardships they’ve endured. “Child Is Father of the Man,” says the song on the Beach Boys’ Smile album (1966). Lyricist Brian Wilson adapted this line from the work of English poet William Wordsworth. This striking phrase means that the crucial events of your childhood have a strong influence on what kind of adult you’ll become.

One example of this is movie star Audrey Hepburn, beloved by millions of fans for her enchanting performances in Breakfast at Tiffany’s and Roman Holiday. Though Audrey could have enjoyed an easy, relaxing life after retiring from the screen, she opted to serve others instead, traveling thousands of miles to raise money for UNICEF, the United Nations Children’s Fund. What inspired Audrey to help the world’s hungry children? She used to be one of them herself.

Audrey grew up in Holland during World War II, when naval blockades prevented the Dutch from importing foodstuffs. Starvation and want during those years meant that after the war Audrey no longer had the physical toughness required for the career she had dreamed about—being a ballerina. Even though she enjoyed success and fame as an actress, Audrey never forgot what it was like to go hungry. Therefore, as much as she was able through her work for UNICEF, she made sure that other hungry children would be properly fed and taken care of.

In this unit, you will explore articles, poetry, non-fiction accounts, dramas, and stories about children and young people helping others. Many are driven to serve because of their own life experiences, but in giving to others, they often get a lot back in return. As you explore the selections in this unit, think about how life experiences can shape our values.
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What does it mean to be a better person?

Share your thoughts on how helping others contributes to personal growth. Can you think of a time when you helped someone? How did it make you feel?

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Why is helping others important in our communities?

Discuss the impact that acts of kindness can have on both the giver and the receiver. How do you think your actions can inspire others to help as well?

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What motivates you to want to become a better person?

Consider various reasons such as personal goals, influences from family or friends, or lessons learned from experiences. How do these motivations affect your decisions to help others?