Chaplains Chat 

What an amazing year this has been! Who would have thought that as we started the year, we would be facing a global pandemic and it’s impact on how we would live and function for most of 2020.  Yes, it has been a challenge and we have had to adapt to changes, but I would like to focus on the positives and strengths I have seen emerge over this time. The encouragement that “We can get through this together,” was seen posted on social media and TV and was a very real reminder that indeed, we are stronger together. 

Throughout this year I have seen “beauty out of the ashes.”  Acts of Love, Kindness and Care coming from our amazing school community that have unselfishly thought of others and offered their support where and when they were able.  I feel so privileged to be part of this school family.  And I say “family” because these are the values that are typically shown.

As we enter the season of Christmas, may I encourage you this year to focus on experiences rather than on the consumerism of ‘things.’   Why not have a conversation with your children about ideas that they have for how your family could help others?  This is really a conversation about guiding our children to live gratefully and think of others who may be less fortunate. The following questions could set some powerful ideas in motion.

•  What are some different things we can do with our money?
• What are your favourite Christmas memories from previous years?
• What do we really need to make Christmas awesome?
• What can we give that could make a difference in someone’s life?
• How does it affect the planet when we buy stuff? 
• What might eco-friendly shopping look like?
• What can we give away that we no longer need (and someone else would actually appreciate), before we get a whole bunch of new stuff?
• And, come to think of, do we really need a bunch of new stuff or would we be better off living with less?

A Cornell University study found that shared experiences produce greater happiness than buying or receiving products.  In the immediate aftermath of either receiving a gift or sharing time together, happiness levels were about the same, but as time went on, satisfaction with the object decreased while memories of the experience increased happiness.

These researchers found that this was true even if the experience was initially frustrating, scary, stressful or unpleasant.  As time passes, that holiday failure can become a memory that produces much laughter, joy and shared happiness.  This means that if you want an especially happy family Christmas, focus on buying a memory instead of a bunch of toys. Memories build relationships and bond us closer together.

Things break. Memories grow. For Christmas memories you’ll treasure, invest in gifts that grow.

Wishing you all a truly blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year and may have a safe and restful holiday.

Veronica

FREE Parent Membership with Dr. Justin Coulson’s 

Happy Families

I would like to encourage all parents to take the opportunity to join the ‘Happy Families’ free school membership. The school was very fortunate to receive a grant through Yarra Ranges Council to pay for a free 12 month membership for every parent from our community.

Andre and I have received positive feedback from the parents and staff who have already joined. They have access to podcasts, a huge variety of webinars and many other parenting resources. Please see the link below to join. If you have any questions, please let us know and we are happy to help.

 https://members.happyfamilies.com.au/woori-yallock-primary-school .  Educators can indicate that they are staff from that page.

Keep updated with our weekly "Lighten the Load" email.  Every member will receive a weekly "Lighten the Load" email, which includes a quick, easy to apply tip from Dr. Justin, as well as some updates about other features in the membership.