Dear members of the MLMC community,
The seasons are a wonderful reminder of the cyclical nature of our lives; so, welcome to this winter season.
I once read a story, that I have tried to relay below, I have no idea of the source or the detail but vaguely the story in my head went something like;
Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, there was a king who summoned all his court to meet him before he went to war. He had fought and won many battles and he wanted wise advice that would encourage him when he lost, but, keep his head level when he won.
Fearful for their lives, the advisors climbed a very high mountain to meet with a wise old prophet who lived there. The prophet gave them words of advice for the king.
The next day, the court members met with the king and presented him with a beautiful gold ring they had made. Inside the ring were four words inscribed “This, too, shall pass”.
These words are significant today just as they were for that king in that land far, far away, many years ago. They remind us that every moment will pass. In times of extreme happiness, like winning a grand final, we need to always remind ourselves to keep a level head and not be too full of ourselves, to be a gracious winner; for this, too, shall pass.
In those moments of extreme sadness, we might remind ourselves not to stay upset, or lie awake at night worrying, for worrying will not resolve the issue and this, too, shall pass.
We might remember that much of our lives are made up of single moments that will inevitably be gone. Worry and regret serve very little purpose. Victory and triumph last only a short time. Treasure the memory, but realise that these, too, shall pass.
As I consider this, our fourth lockdown period and the past 12-18 months, I understand that many in our community have struggled in some way during this COVID-19 pandemic. Like you, I watch the news services daily to try gain a glimpse of what is to come and I know many in our College are fearful of prolonged lockdowns and the isolation associated with them. I understand that connection and social engagement is hugely important. I hear teachers report to me that many students are also fearful of future lockdowns and I do not presume to understand the pressures created by these lockdowns for families nor the associated financial pressures created for some. What I can offer you, is the thought that this, too, shall pass.
As Mother Teresa said: “Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today. Let us begin.”
Catherine McAuley, herself, said: “The simplest thing I know… is to resolve to be good today, but better tomorrow. Thus, we may hope to get on, taking short, careful steps, not great strides.”
Many parents, teachers and students ask me when all this will end and, of course, I cannot predict the future and only know the information given to me, which is the same information given to you. What I do know is that one day — this, too, shall end. Let us do what we can do, control what we can control and work today for a better future tomorrow.
Please stay connected with the College and if students are struggling at home have them contact the services available to them. I know our College Captains and Vice Captains made a great video talking about this and offering ways that our students can get help if needed.
Lastly, spend time talking to your children, as children need a trusted adult with whom to share their troubles and fears.
In the spirit of Catherine;
May God bless each and every one of you,
May this present lockdown finish as soon as it is possible,
May we have all students back on campus, which is where we would like them to be.
May vaccination be the pathway to overcoming this virus.
God bless
Philip A Morison
Principal
