October is National Bullying Prevention Month, a time to shine a light on the real struggles students face and the power of choosing kindness. One inspiring example comes from Joshua, whose story is told in the short film I Like Bow Ties, Not Bullying
Joshua endured painful bullying that could have left him defeated. Instead, he turned his hurt into hope. Rather than letting cruelty define him, he found strength in his faith, his unique style, and his voice. Today, Joshua shares his story to help others see that adversity doesn’t have to have the final word.
What Joshua Teaches Us About Generosity
Joshua’s story reinforces a powerful truth for the classroom: generosity is more than giving. It’s choosing how we respond to others, even in challenging moments. His resilience shows students that:
- Generous Words can replace criticism with encouragement
- Generous Attention can notice the student who feels invisible
- Generous Influence can stand up for what’s right
Real Story. Real Challenges. Real Success.
Joshua’s journey is a powerful reinforcement for classrooms: a real story of real challenges and real adversity faced, as well as success. His example helps students see that kindness, faith, and perseverance can write a new ending.
This National Bullying Prevention Month, let’s remind our students that generosity is not just something we talk about; it's something we practice. It’s something we live with. And when we do, it changes everything.
Mini-Lesson for Teachers: Using Joshua’s Story
Objective:
Help students reflect on challenges, resilience, and generosity, connecting Biblical SEL to real-life experiences.
Materials:
- Access to Joshua’s video I Like Bow Ties, Not Bullying
- Link or copy of the article Reflecting on the Past, Looking Toward the Future by Joshua A. Apparicio Swain
- Journals or paper
Activity Steps:
- Read & Discuss the Article (10 min):
Students read Joshua’s article. Prompt discussion with questions like:- What challenges did Joshua face?
- How did he re-purpose obstacles into tools for success?
- What lessons about generosity and resilience can we apply to our classroom?
- Watch & Discuss the Video (10 min):
Show I Like Bow Ties, Not Bullying. Ask: “What challenges did he face? How did he respond generously?” - Personal Reflection (10 min):
Students write about a time they faced a challenge and how they responded. Encourage them to consider:- Could they have responded more generously?
- How can faith, empathy, or encouragement help in the future?
Closing Thought:
Joshua’s story reminds students that real adversity can be transformed into real success when generosity, faith, and resilience guide our choices.
Are you seeking more comprehensive, well-rounded Biblical SEL lessons that promote generosity, resilience, and kindness? Check out Generous Classroom’s curriculum for ready-to-use lessons that bring these principles to life in your classroom.