On the recent Year 7 trip to Canberra I had the opportunity to ride the alpine slide. I examined the small sleds that slide at heart-racing speeds down the stainless-steel tracks, winding through the alpine landscape. As I assessed the situation, each breath of crisp air heightened my senses. Would I engage or would I choose to ‘supervise’ from the sidelines?
Aristotle is quoted as saying, "Courage is the mother of all virtues because without it, you cannot consistently perform the others". Courage allows us to overcome our fear in order to act in accordance with our beliefs and values. As I reflect on the character we aim to create in our students, I see how important courage is. It requires great courage to stand out from the crowd, to be who you are created to be. It takes courage to forgive and move on. It takes courage to risk failure, and to dust yourself off and try again. It takes courage to stand up to a bully, to befriend a lonely classmate or to speak up for someone. It takes courage to stand firm when everyone else gives in. It takes courage to dream and chase those dreams.
From a Christian perspective, our courage comes from God’s promise that He is always with us. We are loved, valued and called to serve. Joshua 1:9 says, "Haven’t I commanded you? Strength! Courage! Don’t be timid; don’t get discouraged. God, your God, is with you every step you take."
The choice to ride the slide was an easy one. If 13 year-olds could do it, so could I. My first ride was a cautious one, with heavy use of the brakes as I sat bolt upright. The students coached me on my technique and I soon learned to lay back and lean into the corners as I sped down the slope. The ride was exhilarating!
Courage allows us to experience the ride of our lives as we commit fully to embracing every opportunity.
Mrs Debra Cooper
Principal
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