Eclipse House News
Day One, Term Two. When the boys returned from break, there was an electric energy in the house. All gathered in the common room, shared holiday stories, some even had some items to show the rest of the house. Purely spontaneous, genuine and effort free.
As we begin Week Four, that same energy has continued throughout the house. We will welcome Kevin Sibosado from Broome into the house at the end of this week. We look forward to getting to know him and showing him around Albany.
Last Buzz I introduced you to Maggie Dent’s letter to the 21st Century teen, 10 things I want you to know. Find your real life ‘spark’ and prioritise it in your life and be a good friend were highlighted. These have continued to be ever present during the first three weeks. We now have a workspace where the boys can create, build, and craft something they feel passionate about. I have also had some boys volunteer to help repair my Toyota. I have learnt so much already from them. Winter sport is in full swing. There is also some music being shared on the piano.
I would like to share with you another point from Dent's letter that has been apparent so far this term.
6. Please don’t listen to your inner critic voice
The mindless thoughts that flood through your head really get stronger in adolescence. Small things can easily become big things and Maggie explains this as being an ANT attack. ANT stands for automatic negative thoughts. If they are allowed to run wild in your mind, you can get stuck in some difficult places. Hiding deep inside your mind is also the voice of your ‘higher self’ or your inner compass. This voice is much quieter than the inner critic and can be really hard to hear in a teen's brain. If you can learn to practise some mindfulness or calming strategies, you will begin to hear the incredible wisdom that your mind holds for you; your inner compass.
Whether it be going for a run on Friday mornings, playing pool with a friend, hockey, football or volleyball training, heading to the gym, watching a movie, designing the next art project or song to learn, reading the newspaper, cooking some chips in the fryer or doing the laundry whilst listening to music, reading a book, playing a game of spike ball, walk in nature, board game or sleep on the couch after a big day; these are all forms of mindfulness that have been present. It has created a space that is calm, focused and engaging. The inner compass is starting to get louder.
On the first Saturday of the term, we also had the first fire pit evening. It was a great opportunity to be outside under the stars and allow conversation to flow with a few roasted marshmallows and campfire games. Recreation has started strong with a great hike on the Point Possession trail. As a house we aim to continue exploring the Albany area.
Angus McSweeney and Darcy Barrett have celebrated birthdays recently, we wish them success in the next year.
As always, please don’t hesitate to call, email or text if you would like to chat.
Mr Taylor Colton | Head of Eclipse House