From the Head

In an unprecedented year it has been an exceptional week as the world has watched the machinations of democracy play out in the US.  As someone who has seen a number of President’s come and go I do think it is necessary to comment when we witness the extraordinary behaviour of a world leader.

Some years ago I came across the thoughts and words of former United States President, Harry S Truman.  Truman was President for the eight years following World War Two.  Here is what he wrote:

"The prayer on this page has been said by me, by Harry S. Truman, from high school days, as a window washer, bottle duster, floor scrubber in a drugstore, as a timekeeper on a railroad contract gang, as an employee of a newspaper, as a bank clerk, as a farmer riding a plow behind four horses and mules, as a fraternity official learning to say nothing at all if good could not be said of a man, as public official judging the weaknesses and shortcomings of constituents, and as President of the United States of America."

Oh! Almighty and Everlasting God, Creator of Heaven, Earth and the Universe:

Help me to be, to think, to act what is right, because it is right; make me truthful, honest and honorable in all things; make me intellectually honest for the sake of right and honor and without thought of reward to me. Give me the ability to be charitable, forgiving and patient with my fellowmen - help me to understand their motives and their shortcomings -- even as Thou understandest mine!”

In contrast, over recent weeks I have been visiting House Tutors in the Senior School where I have observed first-hand the extraordinary generosity of the Girton community in a coordinated food collection.  This week I learnt that Girton students and families had donated over 700kg of food to Bendigo Food Share, the Manager ringing to say that they are both grateful and overwhelmed by the donation.

“Humility and gratitude” are character values in the Girton Grammar Mission and Values document.  The ability to look beyond our own importance, and to consider the needs of others, is a shining example of humility.  Just as Harry S Truman attests, the foundation of this kind of attitude starts at school.

I look forward to humility returning to the office of President on 20th January 2021.

Dr Clayton Massey

HEAD