Rachel responding to "Viktor Frankl on his search for meaning"

What is a school’s ethical responsibility in this area (stewardship)? How can a school navigate the shoals of ideological and political currents and effectively to address stewardship? As an administrator, what tools are available to you to engage this topic with your school community?

In the short clip from 1972, Viktor Frankl elaborates on his belief that the basic human motivation is the will to make meaning and find purpose in life. I do believe this still applies in today’s world; however, for many, the notion of life’s purpose is misguided.  Too often, people embrace the idea that personal satisfaction can only be found in objects and things. When the focus is on acquiring material possessions, the greater good can be over-looked by selfish intent. Informed decision making will continue to be a challenge, if artificial beliefs remain to be the driving force behind many of the choices made each day.

As educators, we must do our part in nurturing beliefs that contradict an egocentric culture. Creating an awareness of the needs of others doesn’t have to be rooted in religion or politics; it speaks to the human element to which we all can identify. It is not enough to communicate these expectations to students, through aspects of the mission statement, school rules or even curriculum; we must live them.

Often stewardship is viewed as something that is carried out on mission trips or when we volunteer with those who are less fortunate. Whereas these are powerful contributions, fostering respectful actions and extending kind gestures throughout the day can serve as a model of service and stewardship to our students.  Children of all ages are aware when teachers take part in small endeavors such as picking up a piece of trash, holding open the door or offering a warm smile. These small-scale interactions, over time, can act as a gateway for our students to take part in larger initiatives regarding ethical and global responsibilities. I think of the analogy of the pebble creating countless ripples in the water; I envision that a kind gesture today may be the catalyst for positive humanitarian efforts in the future.