Principal's Ponderings

Imagine This Gift

As we enter these last two weeks of the 2024 school year, I am reminded of how precious this time is. 

It is our final stretch together, a time to reflect on all we have learned, celebrate how we have grown and embrace the moments still ahead. These final days are not just about finishing strong; they are about leaving a mark of kindness, integrity and encouragement in each other’s lives.

One of the greatest ways we can leave that mark is by living out the love of Christ. Blessing and supporting others is at the heart of our faith, but before we finish and run to Christmas, let us pause and ask, are we giving with sincerity? True generosity flows from transparency, selflessness and integrity. In a world that often says, “Look out for yourself first,” being honest and selfless can feel like swimming upstream. Yet, as followers of Jesus, we are called to rise above, modelling integrity and kindness for our children and one another.

Around school, I have heard the phrase, “Don’t snitch on me!” more than a few times. It is a tough one, isn’t it? Our children are navigating friendships, figuring out loyalty and learning trust. But we also have a responsibility to guide them toward standing up for what is right, even when it is hard. That “don’t snitch” culture can sometimes encourage hiding or excusing harmful behaviour, and that is not what God desires for us. Instead, He calls us to be courageous, honest and full of grace.

This is not a new challenge! Think back to Genesis 3, where Adam and Eve disobeyed God. What did they do? They hid. When confronted, Adam blamed Eve and Eve blamed the serpent. It is human nature to deflect and deny, isn’t it? But God calls us to a higher standard. He invites us to own our mistakes, seek forgiveness and grow into the people He has called us to be. What a gift to pass this lesson on to our children!

The Bible reminds us in Proverbs 12:22, “The Lord detests lying lips, but He delights in people who are trustworthy.”

Teaching our children the value of honesty and standing up for others is not just about behaviour, it is about shaping hearts and character. When they understand that telling the truth and supporting others brings them closer to God’s heart, they see that integrity is not a rule, it is a way of life, a foundation for relationships and a reflection of Jesus.

As we close out this year, I love thinking about Mother Teresa’s words: “Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier.” What a challenge and what an opportunity! Imagine if, in these final days of 2024, we each took that to heart. Imagine continuing into the new year a school community where truth and courage shine, where grace is freely given and where mistakes are seen as moments to grow instead of reasons for shame. That is the legacy we can leave together.

As we step into these last two weeks, let us commit to modelling honesty, kindness and courage. Let us encourage our students to stand up for what is right, to bless others and to embrace every opportunity to grow in integrity and love. 

This is our chance to finish well, not just in our tasks, but in our hearts. Let us make these days count, trusting that Christ’s light in us can brighten the way for others.

Let us finish strong, together, as a community filled with faith, hope, love and praise Him!

Shalom, shalom.

Chad Smit | Principal