Are you as tired of bad news and doomsday “prophets” as I am? Not a day goes by that we are not flooded with words such as “economic disaster,” failed compromise, stalemated proposals for rebound, and on and on and on.
Recently, I was greeted with such pessimistic fatalism that briefly I forgot to just look around and see the abundance of success right here among us. I’ve always said that there is no way to be disheartened or dismayed at the Lower School, because there is such constant joy and enthusiasm everywhere. Teachers are working tirelessly to inspire young minds and hearts; children are smiling as their little light bulbs spark with understanding; dedication, love and patience abound. It is absolutely inspiring to witness such positivity!
Every day, we live the quote, “..and a child shall lead them!” Our students demand our best, command our commitment, and stand tall because they’ve been told they can! I can’t begin to describe the pride of seeing our kindergarteners confidently convince a gymnasium of peers and adults that the “stinky shepherds” and “starchy Wise Men” had one common goal in their Christmas play this morning. Can you imagine their sense of accomplishment, not to mention the lesson they learned in this exercise?!
On the other end of the Lower School spectrum, when our fourth-graders presented their iPad research about Native Americans, wearing masks they had created in art, and singing early American songs, the integrated curriculum here was at its finest!
Our students take the challenges set before them and soar—and we tell them so! Instilling in them at this early age positive, sincere encouragement can only result in confident, optimistic adults, who will carry these qualities into their future, and ours. Daily, there are examples here of growing and learning that lay the foundation for hopeful and thoughtful resolutions later.
As adults, we owe it to our children to surround them with positive messages and beliefs. Our actions must also reflect optimism and promise. I’m sure at some point in Winston Churchill’s tenure, there was an abundance of “advice” about retreating and insurmountable odds—thank goodness the response was, “Keep calm and carry on!”
As we enter this holiday season, let’s take a lesson from another well-known British figure when we hear “Bah humbug,” and reply that at the Lower School there is plenty to be positive about -- and "God has blessed us every one!"
