A traveler came across an old man planting a fruit tree. This fruit tree would not begin to bear fruit

until long after the old man died. So, the traveler asked, “why are you planting a tree that you will never taste the fruits it will bear?” The old man said, “I am not planting the tree for myself, I am planting the tree for the generations to come. I want to give a long-lasting gift to the people that come after me.”

This is an ancient story.

Today we heard from councils on Sport and Natural Science who both emphasized the importance of their disciplines in the development of children.

Natural Science took a long term view. First they gave context for human existence from the perspective of a galaxy 6 billion miles away: earth appeared as but a speck of sand. They shared the imperative of learning to live together in harmony with each other and the earth.

The discipline of Sport looked at the role athletics has taken in shaping social movements, such as the anti-apartheid campaign in South Africa. They also shared of the passion people have for sport and how in a world that is so confusing, how sport can bring meaning and build development for youth. A favorite quote from this presentation:  “we have the huddle in sport.” When you are a team, you gather before or during a game. When you huddle your religion, sexual preference, gender or color of your skin do not matter. In a huddle you need to come together as one to prepare to work together; to build the team for the game you are in. This illustration provides true motivation for social activists wanting more love and forgiveness in the world.

A common theme of the day resonates in the following quote: “Our children will need to address big challenges and for this they will need knowledge and love. We have to prepare our children for living together.” 

I am inspired! These are the reasons I launched seeking community. My deep hope is together we can play a small role in helping our children for living together.