So we’ve reached November and Autumn in France is in full swing. There is so much beauty that goes hand in hand with this time of the school year, and last week was a great example of that as we finished off spirit week in the lower school with the Trunk or Treat event, which sent our students home smiling and full of joy…and candy. Just as we were dismissing the kids to the buses on Friday afternoon a student asked me very seriously, “Now that Halloween is over Mr. Kerr, can you put up the tree and start playing the holiday music every morning?” Of course, I told her that it was just a little bit too early for that, but honestly, I am tempted because I know that the next 4 weeks are going to be tough in many ways for all of us.
Being back on lockdown is hard for sure, and the timing is rough as well with the weather getting colder and the days getting shorter and the flu season just beginning. Plus, the emotional US election is coming up this week and we are struggling with the recent terror attacks that have put us all on edge. There is a lot of uncertainty as we stare down the next few weeks, and if we are not careful the literal darkness of the days can start to seep into our mindsets and our attitudes and it can start to sap our energy and joy. What we can’t forget is that we have the incredible gift of each other, and we need to commit to reaching out for whatever it is that we need. We have to be purposeful in our attempt to lift each other up as often as we can, and to be the light and warmth for each other as the days get colder and darker. There is so much to look forward to as November begins, and I am hopeful that this month will bring some positive changes to our current situation.
I often talk about finding inspiration and joy in the little things in life, and in the beauty that surrounds us in every moment of every day. We have our students and we have each other and that’s a lot! Find ways to take care of yourselves both physically and mentallly over the next several weeks and lean on each other for any support that you need. Lean on me specifically for whatever it is that will make your days easier and brighter. Let’s go out of our way to spread joy and light and happiness all around, and let’s begin tomorrow…I don’t want to have to dig out that tree just yet, but I did put together an awesome new holiday playlist which is all ready to go when it’s time. Here is a favorite poem of mine that can help send you into November in a positive Autumn state of mind. Have a wonderful week everyone as we finish off a successful school accreditation experience, and remember to be great for our students and good to each other.
Hope Is A Thing With Feathers
- Emily Dickinson
Hope is the thing with feathers
That perches in the soul,
And sings the tune without the words,
And never stops at all,
And sweetest in the gale is heard;
And sore must be the storm
That could abash the little bird
That kept so many warm.
I’ve heard it in the chillest land,
And on the strangest sea;
Yet, never, in extremity,
It asked a crumb of me.
Quote of the Week…
Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that. – Martin Luther King, Jr
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