"It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership."
Nelson Mandela
Last night we attended our school Year 7 leadership ceremony. My eldest who is one of the Year 7 children this year, was really excited. It's a "big deal" as we say. All the children were presented with Yr 7 badges. Our parish priest reflected on some inspiring words of leadership and showing "true colours". The children recited a pledge and the audience raised their hands, giving their blessing. Afterwards there was a lovely supper provided, which is fantastic, as it always allows me to catch up with parents who I do not get to regularly see.
The tonsil tyrant, did o.k. He did unleash a few "darth vader" moments, but generally speaking, sat quietly, clapping and cheering where appropriate. Our church had a lovely, family orientated aura to it last night. It was packed to capacity, with the year 7 parents, grandparents, friends and other family members. It reminded me of my childhood actually. Children were having photographs taken outside the church with grandma and grand dad, school friends arm 'n arm, mum and dad. Most of the kids had been to a dinner before hand, celebrating with their families, the year to come. The sense of pride from everyone was evident as our children were called in one by one, receiving their badges, blessed by our very caring parish priest. We are so lucky to still have him attending our church and it is a lovely feeling to think he Baptised my son and was now there to see him, turning into a responsible young man. Our priest has always supported myself and the boys.... always with a warm smile and a joke.
The sense of community at our school and parish is like no other. Everyone surrounds you when help is needed. People whom I've never met, have approached me to tell me what an amazing mother I am...just by watching me with my children. This was shown last night and like most times we attend a celebration. I watched as parents approached my son's good friend, hugging him, offering words of support. You see, unfortunately, his family was involved in the recent earthquake in New Zealand. Last Tuesday during the swimming carnival, a lovely woman whom I have so much time for, (purely from our son's friendship)... received a phone call that her family was affected by the earthquake in Christchurch. She is from New Zealand and her parents, in-laws and brother still reside there. All the mums, that day surrounded her with words of encouragement, hugs and support. Until the end of last week she still had no word on her missing brother. Then tragedy... as we all heard, that her brother had been killed. She left a few days ago to grieve with her parents. So last night to watch her brave son, attend this ceremony without his parents, to watch him show an occasional smile, was just amazing. He did so well and was so strong, holding his head high. Afterwards I spoke to him, offered some words of support, a quick hug, and a caring smile. I reassured him that he was incredible and how proud I felt. The rest of the family are leaving today for New Zealand. I pray that they travel safely, and have strength during such a tragic time.
I think that my family is very lucky to have a wonderful, supportive parish, a caring group of friends and such a fantastic school community in our lives. Raising children is no easy feat. But I know that when you have access to affiliations like this, it makes the journey so much easier. That sense of "community" and "acceptance" is not found everywhere in today's world. This is what I had hoped for my boys on the day they were Baptised... this is what I had envisioned for my family..... and this is what will help guide them in the future.
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