Principal's Ponderings

A Soft Bark (or Word)

Communication is a wonderful gift from God. It is something we often take for granted, yet it plays such a crucial role in our daily lives and in building our school community. 

We have a regular occurrence in the Smit household of a simple display of persistent communication, and I am not talking about whinging.  Often our family will be quietly sitting in our family room, or minding our own business, when we sometimes feel we are being watched. It is not a person, but our lovely canines: Mickey and Goofy. Our beloved Border Collie and King Charles Cavalier sit patiently by the sliding door. Their first subtle communication is giving a gentle tap on the glass, then followed by a soft polite single bark. Usually we are so engrossed in our focus that we often leave their communication unnoticed. It is not usually until we get the ‘persistent’ single bark every 20 seconds, or when Goofy decides no-one is listening so he starts scratching the glass frantically, that we attend to them. Always their communication is one of two things: dinner time or please can we sit by the fire. Their joy is always palpable when we finally understand what they are communicating!

This small illustration of our dogs communicating with us, makes me reflect on how easily we can overlook the important messages being communicated to us by others, especially in the hustle and bustle of our lives. In the midst of our busy schedules and responsibilities, it is easy to miss the signals from those around us, whether it be our loved ones, our students or even God Himself.

Communication is not just about speaking; it is about listening, understanding and responding with love and care. As followers of Christ, we are called to engage in this kind of meaningful communication which builds up our community and strengthens our relationships. Proverbs 18:13 reminds us, “To answer before listening—that is folly and shame.” It is a gentle nudge to slow down, to listen intently and to seek understanding before we respond.

Our faith teaches us the importance of this kind of communication. Jesus himself modelled this through His interactions with others, always listening with compassion, speaking truth in love and guiding others towards a deeper understanding of God’s will. As a school community we are blessed to follow this example. Our communication with one another—whether it is between teachers and students, parents and staff or among students themselves—should reflect the love and grace that Christ has shown us.

In 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Paul writes, “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” These words are a powerful reminder that our communication must always be rooted in love. Without love, even the most eloquent words are empty.

As we navigate this school year, let us be mindful of the power of our words and the importance of our interactions. Whether we are giving instructions, offering encouragement or sharing a concern, let our words be seasoned with grace and truth. Let’s make an intentional effort to listen to one another, to understand the needs and concerns of those around us, and to respond with kindness and compassion.

Daily we have an opportunity to demonstrate the love of Christ in how we communicate and care for one another. Let’s take to heart the words of Ephesians 4:29, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

As we continue to live out community, may we continue to do so the DCS way, with a spirit of unity, understanding and love. Let’s encourage one another, support one another, and above all, let’s communicate in a way that reflects the love of Jesus. Even a soft encouraging word can be important and significant to someone today. A simple soft word, just as our home hears a soft gentle ‘bark’ each day. 

Shalom, shalom.

Chad Smit | Principal