LBO - Sessions on self esteem

Living by Objectives

- Master Kavan Napanda (Std. IX )

St. Joseph’s High School,

Wadala,

1^st October 2013

It was an activity that was designed to be completed in two weeks, but due to the unscheduled Ganesh vacations, the program got stretched to over a month.  The brainchild of Fr. Allwyn Misquitta, our administrator, the sessions on LBO (Living By Objectives) conducted for the students of Stds. V to IX, had all the ingredients for a healthy and effective personal growth.  Their aim was to build a strong sense of self esteem in the students as also impact our society with our meaningful contributions.

The first of these sessions was held on 22^nd August 2013 for the students of Std. IX, and it ended with the programme for the students of Std. VII on 30^th September 2013.  The session was a day long program filled with activities, inputs, games, video presentations, and sharing of ideas. Though the theme running through these sessions remained the same for all the classes, the topics and activities differed to meet the needs of the different age-groups. 

Every session began with an introduction by Fr. Rector and the Principal/V. Principal. They asked the students to make the best use of the opportunity placed before them – an important activity for that since it was held not on a holiday, but a school working day – that would enable them to think, reflect, pray and act.  Fr, Allwyn was ably assisted by Mr. Harry in conducting the engaging day-long sessions.

A motto given to all of us by Fr. Allwyn at the beginning of every session has remained etched in memory : ‘I know, I can, I will, I must. I think all is well, the best is yet to come.’ There were interesting video clips and power-point presentations with strong messages – ‘Love and Belonging’, ‘Health and Happiness’, ‘Self-Esteem’, etc.   The five quotients – Physical, Emotional, Intelligence, Relationship and Spiritual -for a healthy living and effective growth opened our minds to a deeper living.  Quizes, songs, and games were an integral part of these sessions that helped to unwind and recharge! We had fruitful discussions on the environment and the need to care for it.  The seniors were given important information on the ill-effects of smoking and drugs.

 Every class ended the session with a desire of wanting more of such invigorating and effective LBO programs. Such was the mark that the day’s program left on each of us! Thank you Fr. Allwyn and Mr. Harry – you have set us thinking and reflecting.  ALL IS WELL. THE BEST IS YET TO COME!