Dear Parents, Grandparents and Guardians
There is a certain sadness in ending a year that continues to impose struggle and loss on so many families in our College, our city, our country and across the globe. Cancer is one of those scary realities that does not respect any boundaries and everyone will know someone who has been in a battle or is currently in that struggle. I have noticed in this season of pink, that the smallest gesture can carry huge meaning to the ones who are suffering and that is significant - appreciating the value of lives around us is not expensive, it just needs to be genuine.
The world feels a little safer today
It feels like the world is a little safer today because of at least two sets of elections that can only be seen as the hand of God’s mercy. Nevertheless, some form of curbing of international mayhem and the co-operation that coalition local governments are forced to deliver, means our world is in a better place this morning than it could have been.
I have noted that the world has been feeling pretty miserable recently with even Australians expressing mass despondency. I guess that life-happiness and hope are sometimes decisions that we must make for ourselves because it can’t be delivered by a political party. Politicians should stick to promising water and electricity and roads - but on some days that kind of happiness would probably be enough for many of us.
Examinations and tests
Over the next few weeks all the boys will be writing tests and examinations to bring the learning and teaching to a close for 2026. While starting new ventures is not wise for boys now (and that includes new girlfriends) keeping to the routine is advised. Simply organising material and systematically working through past papers is recommended for older boys, and for younger boys - I would prefer that these assessments are simply viewed as an opportunity to consolidate skills and knowledge. Only the lazy need to be stressed - even though they have the best chance of improvement because even a little bit of work goes a long way.
Halfway there - Day #50
100 days seemed like such a long time 50 days ago. With a confirmed 5 kg surrendered I might have to accept that the resistance levels I am facing means donating more than a kg of fat per week is not realistic. However, reaching a year-end 10kg goal would still be lifechanging, so it might be a case of aiming for the stars and landing on the moon. The real advantage is health, flexibility and significantly improved blood pressure readings.
Storms will come
I am fortunate to have the input of some wise people and this week this sentence gave me perspective: “Sometimes God calms the storm, and sometimes He lets the storm rage and calms His child.”
We are told in Col 3:15 to: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.” The word ‘let’ and ‘rule’ probably speak of the difficult way we can choose to live when we seek victory before surrender. I do wish you peace as you climb the mountains in front of you this Monday.
Yours Faithfully
Allen van Blerk
PRINCIPAL