I have always loved the idea of reading in a park : under the shade of trees, with a gentle zephyr, ahem, breeze (!), the works! This is precisely why I chose a 'Reading in the Park' to start off this new year, at the Learning Hut.
The theme for the reading was Inspirational/ Motivational pieces of prose and poetry. The evening started off with a reading from Women in Science by Ms. Kruthi, one on Marie Curie's life. The title brought forth a lot of pertinent questions. There was also discussion on the risks scientists put themselves through in order to make the world better for us to live in. We then had a very animated storytelling, with Nishanth's and Omi's recollection of their vacations.
This was followed by a very interesting session of musical poetry by Mr. Vishnu R. It was truly a treat to enjoy music and poetry, woven together delicately. Like he says in his poetry,
"...to watch,
closely, deeply, lovingly...
as a mother would...
and to be astounded. "
Astounded we were! Srusti's poem on Nature built beautifully upon this element of 'observation'. We then had Mr. Shrinidhi read out a wonderful translation into Kannada of the epic poem by Maya Angelou, 'Phenomenal Woman'. The translation was by Ms. Srilakshmi.
After a short break for tea and snacks, we had Vaidehi read 'The Pale Blue Dot', by Carl Sagan, a reminder to let go and truly live life, for everything is ephemeral. Agni read a short passage from Tagore's Sadhana to wrap up the reading for the day.
All good things must come to an end, and how! We had Mr. Vishnu and Mr. Shrinidhi put together a great rendition of John Lennon's 'Imagine', with the kids singing.
"You may say I'm a dreamer But I'm not the only one I hope someday you'll join us And the world will be as one. "
Here's to more dreamers joining us, with each passing day, at this Learning Hut! Thank you all, for making this happen.
Let each day bring us something new to learn and to share!