Being part of a community requires that we reconcile with one another when we are separated by hurt, anger, or avoidance. Recall with students that reconciliation means making up through sorrow and forgiveness. Share symbols of reconciliation such as a picture of a rainbow or of hands shaking. A rainbow appears after a rain shower or storm. People shake hands after making up. Invite students to name other symbols of reconciliation, such as a heart, cross, dove, happy face, or flower.
Help children create three-dimensional symbols. First they are to each draw a simple reconciliation symbol on paper. Give children sheets of waxed paper to tape over their drawing paper. Provide colored (or white) glue containers. Have children use the glue to outline their symbols on the waxed paper. (If you use more than one color, they can fill in the symbols with different colors after the symbols dry.) Once the symbols are completely dry, carefully peel them from the waxed paper. Display them in a window.
