Definition:

The ability to read body and facial language that shows when others are feeling hurt, and demonstrating the desire to try to help them with their troubles. 

In short: 

Feel what others feel.

Summary:

This is a true story about an ambulance driver named Alaa who, in March, 2011, rescued people and cats after war had come to the city of Aleppo in Syria. He created a sanctuary for cats and other animals, built a playground for children, helped dig a well, and distributed snacks to cheer everyone up in the war-torn city. His Facebook page attracted donors, who contributed to Alaa’s cause. Alaa is now famous because he demonstrated outstanding compassion and a big heart for his people and their animals. 

Lesson Objectives:

1. Teachers can link this lesson to other subjects like history and geography, highlighting the Middle East and touching on its ancient and modern identity (simplified for 7 and 8 year olds). 
2. Students discuss why it’s important to show compassion in the midst of a crisis or difficult situation. 

Guiding Questions: 

1. Where is Aleppo and what happened there when this story takes place? 
2. Is Alaa someone you’d like to meet sometime? What questions would you ask him? 
3. What did Alaa do to help his fellow citizens and their pets? 
4. Would you like to visit his sanctuary and help him take care of the cats? 
5. Alaa said in an interview with the BBC, “Someone who has mercy in his heart for people, has mercy for everything.” Can you put this into your own words?  
6. Many had to leave Aleppo in order to be safe and they tearfully left their pet cats with Alaa. How do you think they felt when he promised to take care of them? 
7. He reassured those who left their cats by taking pictures and sending them photos of their pets. Explain why this might have helped them with their loss.
8. He said that many of his friends have had to leave Aleppo, so the cats have become his friends. Have you ever been comforted by a pet? 
9. Do you know what service animals are? If you don’t, look it up. If you do, share about where you’ve seen them. 
10. Is a person who has compassion strong and brave? Why or why not?