Dear Parents and Carers of Good Samaritan, 

Over the last week we have seen the seasons change and the weather start to get warmer. As this time of year comes around it is important that we take time to take notice of what is happening around us. Nature is beginning to change her face – days become longer, ducklings follow the mother duck into the pond and buds begin to appear on the blossom trees. These changes in the season remind us of the joyful and eternal cycle of life. We all know that Spring is the time of regrowth: the time when we prepare for the long much warmer days of Summer. This time of regrowth can naturally occur within our children. The children can make us acutely aware of what is important and how we can connect with the people and the natural world around us. Recently, there were two students in sick bay. One was feeling apprehensive about his day while the other reached out in friendship. The two continued to chat allowing the other to feel comfortable. When they were asked how they were going the second boy said, ‘He’s not feeling great about his day. So I’m listening. My dad told me that a problem shared is a problem halved.’

I wonder how often we allow ourselves to think about halving the problems of those around us? Do we, in the ‘busyness’ of our day, overlook the people around us who may be looking to halve their problems? How often do we allow ourselves to really be grateful for the seasons as they change throughout the year? How often do we allow ourselves to really be grateful for the people around us and their actions that make our lives just that little bit easier?

As always, the students of Good Samaritan are evidence of people who want to make a difference to others. Just yesterday, some girls were explaining a problem they were having on the playground when another girl came over and offered an apology that was gratefully accepted by the whole group. Whilst it may not have appeared significant at the time what the girls were actually doing was recognising the face of Jesus in the other. They were willing to listen and forgive – they were willing to make a change and make things better for each other.

St Paul says: ‘In all things give thanks, for this is the will of God in Jesus Christ towards you.’ (1 Thessalonians 5:8) As we give thanks for this time of year, as we show our appreciation towards the people around us, we build up an attitude of gratitude. At Good Samaritan, we try to consistently build a positive environment that allows the children to recognise the good around them, to be grateful for all they have and for all they do.

As we continue to hear about children of the world who are displaced, who fear for their safety and who are hungry for the opportunity to be grateful we find ourselves in a position to express our gratitude for the fortunes and blessings that are bestowed upon ourselves and our families.

As we journey together with Jesus,

Toni Sillis

Principal