An Ancient Journey
Listen to the stories. Learn the way. Live the adventure.
The Hero's Journey
“We have not even risk the adventure alone.
For the heroes of all time have gone before us.
The labyrinth is thoroughly known.
We have only to follow the thread of the hero path.”
~ Joseph Campbell
In fireside myths and starry movies, in street festivals and mountain treks, hero stories are spun across the world. Heroes show how to find creative power in times of crisis. Throughout history, heroes have shown us how to risk the adventure of the unknown. They teach the courage to change ourselves and the compassion to serve others.
For more info, teachings of Joseph Campbell.
Superhero Values
Elements of Creation
Superhero Identity
“Brave Turtle” lives with terminal illness.
He protects himself.
He lives fully,
with great determination.
He goes far.
The turtle is determined.
He can endure great distances.
He protects himself.
Imaginative “Aurora” Artist
lights up paper
with dancing colors.
Her art is imaginative
and elegant.
The aurora lights up the sky
with dazzling colors.
It is an elegant dance.
Cheerful or curious,
daring or peaceful?
Your actions speak to who you are.
“Inventive Lemur” creates everyday ~
forts from blankets, dresses from fabric, dollhouses from cardboard.
Ninja Clown
makes fun of himself
so everyone feels included.
He invents games
where there are no losers.
The “clown” is an “ancient pattern” in all cultures.
Its purpose is to show us how to laugh at ourselves,
and connect with each other in humble ways.
“Toucan Youcan” loves
to encourage others
She claps and cheers,
and makes others awesome.
“Dance Party” loves
to reach out with kindness
to those who are different
and dance.
Curriculum Connections
9th grade literature. 3rd grade science. 5th grade history. The STA curriculum is multi-age and multi-disciplined. Staff work with teachers and build a blended curriculum in connection with state standards. Curriculum can be focused on a single unit, interdisciplinary project, even yearlong themes.
BONUS! Lakota. Hispanic. African American. STA is a world class curriculum, with proven success in a variety of cultures.
Superpowers
“Let the beauty of what we love be what we do.” ~ Rumi
What do you love to do? That’s it! That’s where you start looking for your superpower. How can you share this gift to bring life to others?
Look into the “elements of creation” for reference – Joy, Wisdom, Compassion, and Fortitude. Look in any hero story, real or fictional, for inspiration.
What lights you up? Live it.
Shadowscapes
The greatest challenge of the hero is to face the shadows within
Villains
Violence
Violence is a quick response that comes from the oldest part of the brain. It is taught as a way to problem solve, defeat others, and meet needs. It is hidden in everyone and gets triggered by pain and fear. It can even become a mindset.
Fear
Villains are mirrors of the ways that we hurt ourselves and others. Unfocused anger. Stealing. Putting down others. Putting down ourselves. Showing the worst, they bring out the best in the young heroes.
Nonviolence
Learn how to listen with empathy. Discover what a “villain” needs to return to their heroic self. Use nonviolent communication to love.
