Wellbeing

Rollercoasters are one of those rides that you either love or you hate. The combination of the of the ups and downs the twists and turns can either be exhilarating or fear inducing (not to mention nauseating!). 

I remember when I was 16yrs old visiting family on the Gold Coast, they took us to Dreamworld for the day. It was a hot sticky day, with long queues of people standing in line for the rollercoaster.  Not normally being one for fast paced rides, bravely or stupidly I decided to have a go. Waiting in line I began to feel unwell and within minutes the world was spinning and I fell to the ground! I remember waking up with people standing around me all talking at once. I was so embarrassed that I had fainted in line. Some refreshing cold water, shade, a rest for 10 minutes and encouragement from my friend was enough to have me back on my feet queuing up again. No to be deterred, I made it onto the rollercoaster finally.  The next few minutes seemed like an eternity! I screamed with fear, laughed nervously and did all I could to avoid throwing up! I remember during the ride I fluctuated between fear, excitement, joy and a sense of pride that I had given it a go. 

We often use rollercoasters as a metaphor for life. We all face ups and downs, twists and turns that we don't always expect. Those same feelings of anticipation, fear, excitement, joy etc are normal and also part of our life experience.

The beginning of this year at BPS has also felt like a rollercoaster for many people. Anticipation of a new beginning, excitement and joy for everyone reconnecting after the break and getting stuck into the year. However, there have also been some significant challenges for some in the BPS community that have caused anxiety, worry and fear. The twists and turns and "downs", for some, including students, staff and families are very difficult and very real. 

In my role as school chaplain, I have the enormous privilege of listening to people share some of their "rollercoaster" moments, good and bad. I continue to be so encouraged by the determination and courage of children and adults to keep persevering and not give up. I have seen and heard of many ways the community has come together to support one another, by words, actions, generosity, patience and kindness.  Feeling supported on the rollercoaster of life can make a huge difference in the outcome. It can build perseverance, develop our character and create hope. My hope is that if any of you or your children are feeling alone in that journey, that you will find support from others in your community either here at school or through other connections. Please feel free to reach out to me if you would appreciate support in some way for yourself or your child. Lets all try to be intentional in helping others ride the "rollercoaster" with support, encouragement and hope. :)