Today, students learned about the Japanese tradition of Daruma dolls and how they are used as symbols of intention, perseverance, and commitment. A Daruma begins with one eye shaded in when an intention is set. The second eye is added later—only after the intention has been worked toward and fulfilled—serving as a powerful visual reminder that growth takes time, effort, and return.

After learning about this tradition, students began sculpting their own Darumas from clay. Rather than creating identical figures, students are designing personalized Darumas that reflect who they are and what they hope for in 2026. They are thinking carefully about symbolic metaphors—shapes, textures, and features that represent their intentions. For some, this might look like strength, balance, healing, courage, or patience expressed through form.

On Friday, students will paint and glaze their Darumas and write their intentions. They will shade in one eye as a visual commitment to their goal for the year. The second eye will remain blank until they feel their intention has been fulfilled—whenever that may be.

These Darumas will stay with us as quiet companions throughout the year, reminding students that intentions are not about instant success, but about noticing effort, persistence, and who we are becoming along the way.