Reflecting on what a beautiful morning we shared on the 2nd, it's hard to even know where to start! I'm so grateful for each piece of the day and all those who played a part in it.
We began our day with a special POW MIA Ceremony remembering those veterans in a special way. Each item on the table symbolic of the life of a lost solider.
"We cover a small table with a white cloth to honor a soldier’s pure heart when he answers his country’s call to duty. We place a lemon slice and grains of salt on a plate to show a captive soldier’s bitter fate and tears of families waiting for loved ones to return. We push an empty chair to the table for the missing soldiers who are not here. We turn over a glass for the meal that won’t be eaten. We place a white candle for peace and finally, a red rose in a vase tied with a red ribbon for the hope that all our missing will return someday. You are not forgotten so long as there is one left in whom your memory remains."
"We cover a small table with a white cloth to honor a soldier’s pure heart when he answers his country’s call to duty. We place a lemon slice and grains of salt on a plate to show a captive soldier’s bitter fate and tears of families waiting for loved ones to return. We push an empty chair to the table for the missing soldiers who are not here. We turn over a glass for the meal that won’t be eaten. We place a white candle for peace and finally, a red rose in a vase tied with a red ribbon for the hope that all our missing will return someday. You are not forgotten so long as there is one left in whom your memory remains."
After this beautiful moment of reflection, we heard Ameen-Storm share his thoughts about peace, serving and how important it is to hear the stories of our Veterans. What an opportunity the students, teachers, and staff have in this program. Cultivate it in a special way this year. Ask your questions. Actively listen to the responses. This is a special gift.
After Ameen's beautiful poem and opening remarks, Matt Worwood gave students the four big ideas of Documentary Filmmaking! This was just a sneak peak, as he will be at the Digital Media Summit towards the end of the month. Students will then get the opportunity to learn about the important Do's and Don'ts of documentary filmmaking.
After Ameen's beautiful poem and opening remarks, Matt Worwood gave students the four big ideas of Documentary Filmmaking! This was just a sneak peak, as he will be at the Digital Media Summit towards the end of the month. Students will then get the opportunity to learn about the important Do's and Don'ts of documentary filmmaking.
After our opening ceremony and other remarks, we broke up into three groups allowing smaller groups of students 1. to ask questions and listen to the stories of these amazing men who served our country, 2. to learn the Top Ten of Interviewing from journalist and editor, Chris Gardner, and practice these skills on Vietnam Veteran, John Deroin, and 3. practice their camera & lighting technique with Tech Guru Chris Farrell).
What a full day! After such an incredible day, students ate lunch with the veterans and experts before heading back to their schools.
There were many beautiful things I took to heart after yesterday's program. A few of my favorites were:
One thing that really struck me wasn't something that was asked or commented on. Instead it was watching 100 high school students 'get it' and respectfully, consciously, and meaningfully ask about these men and their service. It was beautiful.
This is going to be a wonderful year for POH! I'm excited to have you all on board. Keep checking back here for our updates and I'll see you at the Digital Media Summit at WCSU on October 24th! :)
There were many beautiful things I took to heart after yesterday's program. A few of my favorites were:
- Find something that you are passionate about and don't give it up.
- Be kind, loving, and caring of others. Help one another.
- Do something for your country. Participate.
- Communicate. Listen. Be patient. Stick together. Reach out. Be sensitive. Say 'thank you.'
- Write a letter or send a package to anyone serving now. Those little gestures matter.
One thing that really struck me wasn't something that was asked or commented on. Instead it was watching 100 high school students 'get it' and respectfully, consciously, and meaningfully ask about these men and their service. It was beautiful.
This is going to be a wonderful year for POH! I'm excited to have you all on board. Keep checking back here for our updates and I'll see you at the Digital Media Summit at WCSU on October 24th! :)