With its roots beginning soon after the terrors and devastation of WWI, in hope of a better world, Waldorf education strongly supports creating a culture of respect, understanding, compassion, appreciation and encouragement for all to contribute and connect to the people around us. It attempts to expand a child’s horizons to see all the good in many cultures, beliefs, and traditions, and to also see it on a personal level in their own homes, classrooms, and school. Creating this community of support, service and positive connection thrives when families participate in volunteer opportunities, service projects, fundraising, and similar activities. Students foster classrooms of acceptance through discussions and practices, helping one another in academics rather than competing, caring for younger classes, and class service projects. Steiner reflected by saying, "A healthy social life is found only, when in the mirror of each soul the whole community finds its reflection, and when in the whole community the virtue of each one is living." 

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The organization Common Ground was founded to help develop this universal connection of humanity through observing and celebrating the seasons, something that is “experienced in all places, rural and urban alike, binding us to nature and the passing of time. Our relationship with nature and the cycle of the seasons has long been celebrated… Festivals still provide engaging and enjoyable ways to connect with landscapes and help enhance a distinctive sense of identity within local communities. The seasons are part of us, ... reminding us that we are bound to natural events and that we are participating in life, not just standing and watching from the side-lines."

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 These celebrations and festivals have always been important to the culture of Waldorf schools. They are a time when staff, students, and families can create long lasting memories and bonds as they work together and volunteer to create these magical moments. It is encouraged that they be adapted to local culture, religion, and needs. Typically, since Waldorf schools originated in a Christian Germany, those types of festivals have been mainly celebrated like St. Michaelmas, St. Lucia, etc., however, as the world has become more connected and schools have expanded across the globe, the need to expand our knowledge and appreciation for cultures around the world is much greater in order to develop this love and human fellowship.

 

Celebrating the seasons is a common ground that allows us to celebrate all cultures and draw upon their wonderful  stories and traditions to inspire connection and unity.