Writing letters to orphans

I have been so fortunate to have been able to teach the Little Big Help Lesson at my both my schools; over 300 children in total. The reactions from the students and teachers have been both moving and inspirational.

Some quotes from my class:

“Why can’t I donate more than just one pencil? I have many pencils?!”
“How will the children in India sharpen their pencils? Can I donate my pencil sharpener too?”
A really hard question from Grade 6: “Why do parents not want the children anymore?” I was stumped and had to gulp back a feeling of tears welling up inside me. I hadn’t planned on a a question like that…

By teaching this lesson it has made me realize some of the things I lacked as a child in my own education. I never really had a realistic picture of the world. I was only in my little primary school bubble and my parents gave me everything; I never realized how fortunate I was.

Since beginning this project I came to believe the reality; we need to education our children about how the world really is. This way, at a young age, children can grow up with a vision of appreciating what they have and further to extend a helping hand to those whom need it. Even if it’s something small - you can always give…you can always help someone whom needs it.


It’s a real challenge to put compassion as one of your objectives in your lesson plan; it’s something you must experience in your own heart. I hope I provide this light for my students and they find their way down a path of helping others and being thankful for their lives.


I have asked my students to write cards for the children at Our Home orphanage. I was really touched after reading what they wrote - it was truly amazing. My vision on compassion worked! Here’s the letter from Ha Kyeon, Grade 5, (minus some grammar corrections) ☺

“To Friends

Hello! It’s nice to meet you. My name is Ha Kyeong. I come from Korea and I am 12 years old. I saw a video about you and Our Home in English class.
I think India is very different from my country. I want to visit India someday.
I prepared a little gift from my heart (pencil). I hope it is helpful.

Ha Kyeong”