Learn often, Learn deeply
I truly believe that you will make a difference to the world we live in
I would like to say what an absolute honour it has been to be the Deputy Principal of the graduating class of 2018. Over the past three years I have not only had the privilege of watching you grow into caring, compassionate individuals, but I have also watched you grow into a dynamic and cohesive year group.
As humans, we have five basic senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste and touch. We use these senses to navigate and enjoy the world around us. Each provides a doorway to rewarding personal experiences that help us understand what it means to be a living, breathing human being; to see the most beautiful sights, hear the most amazing music, smell the finest scents, taste the best food and touch the softest fabrics.
As a school, I hope that we have instilled three extra senses in our students: a strong sense of self and purpose, a sense of belonging, and a sense of community spirit. These senses are not as tactile as the five traditional ones, but I believe that they are the pillars of positive relationships and therefore, happiness. Knowing who you are, where you fit in the world and how you can contribute to it, will enable you to truly enjoy a good life.
A good life means wanting to get out of bed every morning, excited to take on whatever each day has in store. It has nothing to do with material possessions. A good life is based on the compassionate deeds you perform, the personal goals you strive to achieve, and the legacy you leave behind as a result of the mark you make on the world around you. British philosopher, mathematician, historian, writer, social critic, political activist and Nobel Prize winner, Bertrand Russell, said, “The good life is one inspired by love and guided by knowledge”.
Year 12, I hope you continue to learn. Learn as much as you can, learn often, learn deeply. Learn how you learn. Learn to love. Learn how to fail. Most importantly, learn to love learning. You can never be overeducated and gaining knowledge is one of the few things in life that can never be taken away from you. Every day is a chance to learn something new about the life you wish to attain or the person you wish to become. It is through learning that will enable you to change the world. I truly believe that YOU will make a difference to the world we live in.
Many of us get caught up in the past and future, contemplating the "if's” and wondering what is going to happen, especially at such a pivotal life moment as finishing high school. Sometimes we become blind to the little moments that are unknowingly the building blocks of a rewarding life. Right now is life. Don’t miss it. It is an entire world wanting to be shaped by your own desires. A happy and fulfilling life is a life that is shared with people that you enjoy being around the most. Cherish those relationships and treat those around you with compassion and respect.
Year 12, you will always have a special place in my heart as the very first Cecil Hills High School graduating class that I have overseen. I wish you all every success and happiness. Enjoy your life and make it matter. Don't focus on what you don't have, focus on what you do have and how it can help you get the rest. The best things in life truly are free, from a beach sunset to a hug from Alitia, a song from Alison, a smile from Cheaky, advice from Zac or a joke from Phanouk. However, life's simple pleasures can only be obtained if your mind is conscious of their arrival. Be present in each and every moment, it will make you a much happier and inspired human being. Keep inquiring and exploring. Read, travel, learn, smile, laugh, hug, connect with others and most importantly, look after yourself and look after each other. The world really is a beautiful place, especially because you are all in it.
Denise James
Proud Deputy Principal