Lessons from My Grade 5 Students

As a teacher, there are moments when your heart feels a little fuller, your smile a little wider, and your hope for the future shines a little brighter. This happened recently when I asked my Grade 5 students a simple, yet profound question: “What is your purpose in life?”

Their answers, oh, their answers… they were nothing short of heartwarming.

Some said their purpose was to love people, others said it was to do good. There was one answer, though, that stood out to me and honestly, took me by surprise: “To clean the Earth.”

I’m not sure if it’s the innocence of youth or the simplicity of the thought, but there was something so beautiful about it. This little voice reminding us of how much our planet matters, of how we all can contribute to its well-being. To see a child care so deeply about the Earth at such a young age really puts things into perspective. We may get bogged down by life’s daily to-dos, but here’s a child who just wants to make sure we take care of our world. Pure. Simple. Powerful.

As I reflected on these answers, it hit me that having a purpose gives life meaning. Without it, you just go through the motions—empty, sad, maybe a little lost. It’s easy to get caught up in the busyness of life and forget the bigger picture. But these kids, with their fresh perspectives, reminded me that having a purpose can give us direction, passion, and a sense of fulfillment.

If there’s one thing I’ve learned from these wise little souls, it’s that we all have a purpose. Whether it’s caring for the planet, showing kindness to others, or simply making the world a little brighter, our purpose is what keeps us grounded and gives our actions meaning. And my hope is that they will carry this with them, not just through their school years, but throughout their lives.

So, if you’re ever feeling a little lost or unsure of your purpose, remember the words of my Grade 5s. Love, do good, and maybe… just maybe, help clean the Earth. It’s a great place to start.

Here are some of the thoughtful answers from my students:

Let’s all take a moment to find our purpose and live with intention.

Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

This verse is a reminder that God has a purpose for each of us, one that is filled with hope, growth, and fulfillment. It encourages us to trust that there is a plan for our lives, and our purpose is part of that divine plan.