The Giving Tree, by Shel Silverstein
When we are genuine in the way we care about others, we are better and healthier people. When we are healthy, we have more energy to share with others. We can give away material things, but mostly we can give ourselves. There is a book called, "The Giving Tree". It tells the story of a little boy who loves a tree. The boy takes and takes from the tree. In the end, the tree has nothing left to give. The tree is nothing but a stump, yet it stills allows the boy who is now an old man to sit and rest.
Are you a giver or a taker?
Kids who read the book, "The Giving Tree ", discussed what they learned from this story and answered these questions. (Comments are undedited from Think.com "Kindness is Contagious" projects).
What was the one thing the tree really wanted from the boy?
 The one thing the tree really wanted was for the boy to be happy and that is why he gave him whatever he wanted. ~Jacob, Molly
The boy was not happy when the tree gave him the stuff. The tree is the giver in the story. ~Jacob, Ethan, Aubrey
What did the tree want from the boy ? The tree wanted a thank you from the boy . ~Laurel and Jesslyn
The only thing the tree wanted from the boy was the boy's love. ~A.S. and T.A.
The tree wants the boy to climb her so she feels special again. ~Ki'Shoun and Daniel
All the tree wanted was for the boy to be happy and the tree also wanted the boy to spend time with her. ~Curtis and Logan
The tree is the giver in the book because the tree gives the boy things he wants. The tree gave the boy happiness and apples. The tree wanted the boy to be happy, but he really never was. ~Austin, Nathan, Isaiah
Do you know a giver?
Moms and Dads are givers because they give us things. ~RJ
A giver is a person who is thoughtful and gives important things, especially themselves. ~K.B., J.B., A.G.
Do you know a taker?
When another student interrupts or disrupts class they are a taker. They are taking time away from learning. ~Malik
I am a taker because I expect alot from my parents. ~Jesse
Some friends are takers because they take and take, but never give back. ~Canaan
It is good to appreciate what other people do for us. Always, remember to say, "Thank You." It is nice to put your thoughts in writing and make someone feel special. A hand written thank you note is a good way to show someone you care. Many times, a handwritten note becomes a treasure. Read "Thank You" notes from students
A Message to You
Dear Reader,
This is a story of unconditional giving. The tree continues to give when there is nothing left to give. There are people who live the same way. Sometimes we are very selfish and we take from others without giving anything back, especially in our family. Parents want their children to be happy, so they try to give them everything they want. Kids sometimes appreciate what their parents give and do for them, but some kids just enjoy what they get without giving any credit or thanks to their parents.
Kids, find a way to see the good side of any situation and be grateful. Show love daily to your family because they will always be there for you. When you grow into adults and your parents are old and need care, remember all that they did for you. Give back to your parents the care your parents gave to you.
Love,
The Kindness Kids ♥
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