Discussion Questions§
Sahana has to face dramatic changes in her life after her father’s business nearly fails. She realizes she needs to grow up more and help make the family stronger, rather than just think about herself. This story illustrates how selfishness can block appreciation. Being grateful to the people in our lives is the desired result of working to overcome selfishness. §
- What was Sahana’s and Palani’s first reaction to the news about Dad’s business problems?
- Can you recall a major challenge your family faced as a whole? How did you react? Would you respond the same way today?
- How was Dad behaving at first when faced with his business problems? What incidents show his state of mind?
- How did Sahana’s mother react to her daughter’s complaints? What did she mean by advising compassion? What does that mean to you?
- Two examples are given in the story of people expressing anger in difficult situations. What are they? Why was it understandable? Are you aware of forms of suppressed anger? What are they?
- Is showing appreciation something that comes naturally, or do we have to be taught this cultural refinement?
- What changed in the way Sahana viewed her Dad toward the end of the story?
- Why would being appreciated make someone a better employee, friend, employer, teacher, etc.?
- Share how you were affected when someone appreciated you.
- What strategies can you think of that would create more appreciation in your various relationships?