'STICKS AND STONES MAY BREAK MY BONES, AND WORDS WILL HURT OR GROW ME'
In the old saying, "Sticks and stones may break my bones" that is very true. Equally, the line "but words will never hurt me" is so completely untrue. In a world where digital technologies require us to use many words, it is so very important to stop and think before you press 'send'. In Matthew and Mark, there is a reference to Jesus speaking to Peter (part of Matthew 16:23): "Jesus turned and said to Peter, 'Get behind me, Satan!' " This was after Peter had rebuked Jesus. Imagine what must have gone through Peter's mind that he might represent something he was so opposed to.
Some years ago I offered one of my colleagues a piece of chocolate, knowing full well that he was not allowed sugar. He said to me, "Get behind me, Satan", and we both laughed. When he said the words, there was a smile and a body language that saw the humour of the moment. It has been my experience that emails and texts struggle to share the subtleties of human emotion, despite the number of emojis that are being created to try to replicate them. We need to choose our words carefully, and if we cannot find the right words for our email, my best advice is to go and see the person, or Facetime/Skype. We are called to love our brother; find the right words to put them first, and send them with love through our actions.
“Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and their lips from deceitful speech"
1 Peter 3:10
PARENT-TEACHER INTERVIEWS REMINDER
We will be having a Parent-Teacher evening on Wednesday 14th March from 6pm to 8pm, in the school cafeteria. The purpose of this evening is for you to meet/greet teachers regarding the progress of your child so far this year. We will also be having some information 'corners' to address things such as the Portal and NCEA. Nibbles will be provided throughout the evening.
We look forward to seeing you and your child. Please come prepared with any questions you may have.
Boarding parents/caregivers: please convey to the boarding deans any concerns regarding your child, as they will attend on your behalf.
LEVIN PARENTS
As it is not always easy for Levin parents to get to parent-teacher interviews, it has been decided that Mr Brendan van Oostveen (Principal) and Miss Ros Burnett (Deputy Principal) will come down to Levin on Wednesday 21 March. At this stage we are still finalising the details, so watch this 'space'. The meeting will provide an opportunity for Levin parents to catch up on their children's general progress but also to bring any friends they have who may be considering sending their children to LAC. Brendan has mentioned that he will be providing the finger food. So watch out for that alert and/or email, with more details.
MRS WALSH RETIRES
After 18 years working in the role of Management Assistant, Glynis (aka Mrs Walsh) has chosen to retire. In these times, 18 years is a long period to be in one position with one employer. She has ‘broken in’ and looked after four principals over her time of service at LAC, and has seen a number of major events take place in the school’s history. When I asked her what event or moment comes to mind as being the best example, Glynis began to smile and started to recount some linguistic faux pas, some of which could not be repeated! Upon reflection, that is not surprising considering the number of reports she has proof-read.
On a personal note, I would like to thank Glynis for being prepared to put me first on many occasions when I simply needed to be supported in getting a particular task done. She has a large store of institutional knowledge, and I have little doubt that we will be calling on this as a new person takes over the role, hopefully at the start of Term 2.
Brendan van Oostveen, School Principal |
