# Transforming Grief into Action: Lessons from a Sandy Hook Mom
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Chapter 1: The Unlikely Advocate
It’s common for parents who have lost children in school shootings to campaign for stricter gun control. However, Scarlett Lewis has taken a different path. Her son, Jesse, was among the 26 victims of the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy in 2012. In an article from May 28, 2022, she shared her unique perspective in light of ongoing violence:
“We remain behind the curve if we solely concentrate on the issues. Inspired by Jesse's last message, 'Nurturing, Healing Love,' which he wrote on our kitchen chalkboard days before his passing, I founded the Choose Love Movement to tackle the underlying causes of suffering that lead to such tragedies.”
Section 1.1: The Choose Love Movement Explained
The Choose Love Movement, established by Lewis in 2013, is a non-profit dedicated to enhancing social and emotional learning (SEL) and fostering character development. According to the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL), SEL equips individuals with the skills and knowledge required to forge healthy identities, manage emotions, and build supportive relationships.
Initially, Choose Love provided a complimentary program for schools, comprising lesson plans, visual resources, and worksheets aimed at teaching SEL to children. Over time, the curriculum has been updated to incorporate contemporary research from neuroscience and positive psychology, even including resources for addressing trauma from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Recognizing the universal value of these skills, the movement has expanded its offerings to include programs for individuals of all ages, applicable in homes, workplaces, and community settings. The "About Us" section of Choose Love emphasizes a straightforward formula:
COURAGE + GRATITUDE + FORGIVENESS + COMPASSION-IN-ACTION = Choosing Love. This model is designed for anyone to learn and implement, fostering environments that are welcoming, supportive, and safe.
Imagine if more individuals practiced these essential skills. Wouldn't it be preferable to cultivate a compassionate atmosphere rather than one filled with animosity and blame? You can begin this journey by taking the Choose Love pledge, which includes the commitment to replace negative thoughts with loving ones.
This video features a Sandy Hook mom discussing the urgency of addressing the root causes of violence and the importance of love and understanding in our communities.
Section 1.2: The Impact of SEL Programs
The efficacy of SEL programs is well-documented. Research from CASEL shows that students participating in SEL initiatives demonstrate improved behavior, enhanced emotional management, and a more positive attitude towards themselves, their peers, and their education. As Scarlett Lewis highlights, children who have supportive adults and are taught essential coping skills are less likely to harm themselves or others. This approach is not just intuitive; it is supported by extensive research.
For those interested in detailed findings on SEL's effectiveness, numerous studies affirm that well-implemented SEL programs positively influence various social, health, behavioral, and academic outcomes across diverse student populations.
Chapter 2: Testimonials and Evidence of Success
Surveys reflect strong support for the Choose Love Program among educators. In a 2020 survey, 95% rated the program as "good," "very good," or "excellent," while 73% reported improved relationships among students and 62% noted enhanced academic performance.
Educators have shared personal experiences reflecting the transformative power of the program. Krislyn Petti from Wilby High School in Connecticut remarked:
“Implementing the core concepts of the Choose Love Enrichment Program fundamentally changed my classroom culture. The environment improved remarkably, and I found myself growing personally through these lessons.”
Similarly, Ginger Ullmer from Arkansas observed that the program not only benefited at-risk students but also enhanced the overall school climate. She encouraged others to embrace this program for its wide-ranging impact.
In this video, a Sandy Hook mom shares her journey toward forgiveness and how it has shaped her life and community involvement.
Final Thoughts: A Path Forward
Scarlett Lewis channeled her profound grief into a movement that has reached over 3 million people in 120 countries since its inception. The Choose Love Movement serves as a reminder of the positive changes that can stem from personal tragedy. Imagine a world where everyone embraced the Choose Love pledge and educators were equipped to teach these vital skills to children of all ages.
By practicing COURAGE + GRATITUDE + FORGIVENESS + COMPASSION-IN-ACTION, we can all learn to choose love and foster a more compassionate world. If you want to explore more ways to create positive change in your life, check out my “Changing Lives” newsletter.