256. Scarlett Lewis: Choosing Love and Forgiveness

Origins

Scarlett Lewis founded the Choose Love Movement after the tragic loss of her son, Jesse, in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Inspired by a message Jesse left behind, she committed to spreading the words "nurturing, healing, love" globally, believing that if the shooter had experienced these, the tragedy might have been prevented 1. The movement offers free programs for schools and communities, emphasizing the importance of teaching compassion and essential life skills 2. Scarlett's dedication to this cause is unwavering, as she continues to promote these values worldwide.

   

Impact

The Choose Love Movement has made a significant impact, reaching over 10,000 schools across 150 countries. Scarlett Lewis emphasizes the importance of teaching life skills that foster happiness and well-being, which are often missing from traditional curriculums 3. She highlights the movement's role in addressing childhood mental health issues by providing tools to manage anxiety and emotions 4. Scarlett believes that by choosing love, individuals can reclaim their personal power and respond thoughtfully to life's challenges 5.

   

Program

The Choose Love Movement integrates social-emotional learning, positive psychology, and trauma-informed growth into its programs. Scarlett Lewis combines these elements to create a comprehensive curriculum that addresses both psychological and physiological benefits 6. The movement encourages healing through expression, allowing children to release their pain and learn compassion through activities like writing gratitude letters and creating care packages for the homeless 7. This approach empowers children to manage their emotions and fosters a sense of community and empathy.