Heart and sole
You’ll need
- Pens (non-permanent)
Choose your piece of writing
- Everyone should choose a piece of writing that’s important to them. They can write their own, if they want to.
- Some people may choose a prayer or a reading for this activity. These usually have a purpose or a theme, for example, wishing that something will happen, hoping for a better future, saying thank you for the good things in your life, apologising for doing wrong, or committing to doing better.
- Other people may choose a story, poem, or song lyric for this activity. These can have a purpose or theme, too. Some may help us feel and express emotions (such as sadness, or excitement), others tell us about history, teach us morals, or remind us of a special memory or person.
Share your writing near and far
- Everyone should share the piece of writing they’ve chosen, and explain why they like it and what it means to them.
- Everyone should choose their favourite word or line and use the non-permanent pen to write it on the bottom of their shoe. Over time, as they walk, the ink will rub a tiny bit at a time into the ground, and everyone will share their word everywhere you go.
Reflection
This activity was a chance for you to develop your beliefs. Everyone has some beliefs – what beliefs did your piece of writing support? Did your piece of writing have a purpose or a theme – if so, what was it? Did you enjoy talking to other people about your beliefs? Do you feel more confident about your beliefs now?
This activity could also help you think about your wellbeing. How does your piece of writing make you feel? Are there any times when might your piece of writing be especially important to you (when celebrating, when you feel scared, at a certain time of year)? Does your piece of writing help you feel like your life is good? Do your beliefs make your life better?
Safety
All activities must be safely managed. You must complete a thorough risk assessment and take appropriate steps to reduce risk. Use the safety checklist to help you plan and risk assess your activity. Always get approval for the activity, and have suitable supervision and an InTouch process.
Remember that not everyone will be as comfortable talking about personal things like beliefs.
If anyone doesn’t want to (or isn’t allowed to) write on their shoes, they could paint or write it on to a flat stone.
Another way to do this activity is to ask everyone to write their chosen word or line in chalk on the floor (or a safe paved outdoor space), or on a big piece of paper. If everyone’s happy to, people could try and guess who wrote what.
You could also combine this activity with a visit to a place of worship or cultural centre.
Anyone who doesn’t identify with a faith can choose any song, poem, or song lyric that holds meaning for them.
No one has to read their words out loud – someone else could read for them, then they can explain why they like it and what it means to them.
People can explain to as many people as they feel comfortable with – it’s OK if this is only two or three people.
If anyone isn’t confident writing, they can draw something to represent their word or line instead.
All Scout activities should be inclusive and accessible.
