This weekend, I have the privilege of facilitating the IB workshop “Leading an IB Education,” where we delve into what it truly means to be an IB school. It’s an honour to work with skilled educationalists from schools across the Gulf and the wider AEM region.

During this workshop, I was introduced to two poignant poems: Mahmoud Darwish’s poem “Think of Others”, and "Bani Adam" by the 13th-century Persian poet Saadi Shirazi.

"Think of Others" is a poignant reminder of the importance of empathy and global awareness, which are central to the IB concept of international mindedness. The poem urges us to reflect on the lives and struggles of others in our daily actions, fostering a sense of shared humanity. By encouraging us to think beyond our immediate surroundings and consider the broader impact of our actions, the poem aligns with the IB’s goal of nurturing students who are open-minded, caring, and respectful of diverse perspectives. This reflection on empathy helps students develop a deeper understanding of global issues and the interconnectedness of our world.

Furthermore, “Think of Others” highlights the significance of considering others in both mundane and complex situations, such as preparing breakfast or engaging in conflicts. This duality emphasizes that international mindedness is not limited to grand gestures but is also about the small, everyday actions that contribute to a more compassionate and inclusive world. By integrating this mindset into their lives, students can become more aware of their role in the global community and the importance of acting with integrity and respect. The poem thus serves as a powerful tool for fostering a sense of responsibility and ethical behaviour, which are essential components of the IB philosophy.

Think of Others by Mahmoud Darwish:

As you fix your breakfast, think of others. Don't forget to feed the pigeons.
As you fight in your wars, think of others. Don't forget those who desperately demand peace.
As you pay your water bill, think of others who drink the clouds' rain.
As you return home, your home, think of others. Don't forget those who live in tents.
As you sleep and count planets, think of others. There are people without any shelter to sleep.
As you express yourself using all metaphorical expressions, think of others who lost their rights to speak.
As you think of others who are distant, think of yourself and say 'I wish I was a candle to fade away the darkness.

This poem, titled “Bani Adam” or “Children of Adam,” was composed by the 13th-century Persian poet Saadi Shirazi. It is inscribed at the entrance of the United Nations building in New York, as it eloquently captures the essence of human interconnectedness and empathy.

The poem highlights that all human beings are part of a single whole, sharing a common soul and essence. It suggests that when one person suffers, it affects everyone, emphasizing the need for compassion and unity. This message resonates with the core mission of the United Nations, which is to foster peace, security, and cooperation among nations and peoples.

By showcasing this poem, the UN reinforces the idea that global challenges require collective action and that empathy and mutual support are essential to creating a harmonious and just world.

“Bani Adam” or “Children of Adam

The poem comes from Saadi's book the Gulistan or Golestan (chapter 1, story 10), completed in AD 1258.

بنی آدم اعضای یکدیگرند
که در آفرينش ز یک گوهرند

چو عضوى به‌درد آورَد روزگار
دگر عضوها را نمانَد قرار

تو کز محنت دیگران بی‌غمی
نشاید که نامت نهند آدمی

banī-ādam aʿzāy-e yek digarand

keh dar āfarīnesh 'ze yek goharand

cho ʿozvī be-dard āvarad rūzgār

degar ʿozvhā rā namānad qarār

to k'az meḥnat-e dīgarān bī-ghamī

nashāyad keh nāmat nahand ādamī

A close translation of the above is as follows:

"Human Beings are members of a whole

In creation of one essence and soul

If one member is inflicted with pain

Other members uneasy will remain

If you have no sympathy for human pain

The name of human you can not pertain"