January 2024

In his book of poetry, John Donahue, To Bless the Space Between Us, caused me to pause and reflect again on the past year of teaching. As in years past, the idea of counting my blessings came to mind after a few pages were flipped through. The chance to reflect on that profoundly important concept of 'blessing' and how we understand it and misunderstand is in part a way in which we make meaning in our lives from year to year.

Many people have a preconceived idea of blessing, but to stop, and think of it as a signpost might not be your first thought. Blessing is the grace that we get to live "in to" and share with others daily, but it is often mistaken for privilege. It is a signpost that directs us towards the sacredness of all our lived-experienced, a holy space and acknowledgment that we are not always in control of outcomes and results. It is a reminder of our profound need for each other as noticed in the snapshots of life. Blessing is a time to pause; to acknowledge all that is good.

Many Hebrew prayers contained the word Berakhah, which translates as a blessing, more accurately, to acknowledge God as the source of all blessings. As we start this new year, we continue to plea for God's protection of our students, community and the world. We take real stock of all the good going on in this season of our life. To stop and be present in the real joy of our blessings. requires a recognition that despite fear and anxiety exists, but this sacred form of grace, allows us to become aware of the presence of something greater, something like a holy window into wonder, hope and imagination. I have posted A Blessing: For Presences below, I hope some part of it speaks to you and your journey today, and through 2022.

Looking forward to a great school year with your fantastic child!

A BLESSING: FOR PRESENCE

May you awaken to the mystery of being 

here and enter the quiet immensity of your own presence.

May you have joy and peace in the temple of your senses.

May you receive great encouragementwhen new frontiers beckon.

May you respond to the call of your gift

And find the courage to follow its path.

May the flame of anger free you from falsity.

May the warmth of heart keep your presence aflame and anxiety never lingers about you.

May your outer dignity mirror an inner dignity of soul.

May you take time to celebrate the quiet miracles that seek no attention.

May you be consoled in the secret symmetry of your soul.

May you experience each day as a sacred gift,

Woven around the heart of wonder.

From John O' Donahue, (1998). Eternal Echoes. Exploringour hunger to belong. London, Bantam Books.p.139