Anneke Theron, Lower School Counsellor, reflects on what's important during tough times.
I wonder if any of us could have anticipated the difficult year that 2020 turned out to be. From an initial lockdown observing winter turn into spring and clapping for our NHS on Thursdays, to the marathon of never-ending battles with Covid, melting into yet more restrictions, lockdowns, and the stress and strain on our already fatigued mental health. In addition to our own stresses, we may also have been concerned about family members, many of whom we have not been able to see. Last, but not least, there has also been worry over the impact of this strange year on our children and young people.
With a much-needed break behind us, I am hoping that many will have had the opportunity to take stock of what really matters. During this winter break, we may not have had the chance to meet up with families or even have big get-togethers with friends, but, despite the restrictions and the continued challenges we all face, we could still choose to invest in our children and immediate family members in a way that is real and impactful. Perhaps 2020 was a year of connection, or maybe through the trials and tribulations, we have drifted apart and feel lonelier than ever. What we all experienced last year has affected people in many different ways.
The pressures and distractions on our children and families have been, and remain, significant. It may be hard to focus on the positives right now. When our biggest focus may be ‘surviving’ these hard times, it may not feel possible to be entirely engaged in and enjoy the moment.
It may be hard to reconnect with ourselves and each other after such an exhausting year. It may be difficult to block out the noise and distractions in a 24/7 notifications world, but I would like to encourage everyone in our community to ensure they take some time away from your screens and discover each other again and the natural world around us. I remember the advice of a stranger one day in an awkward ‘stuck-next-to-each-other’ conversation about raising children when mine were still little and he was right in the middle of parenting during the tricky adolescence years: “Talk, talk and talk, even when you can’t think of what to say anymore, but just keep on talking”. I have remembered this, and I think it is relevant advice for us all!
A new year brings new seasons and new intentions. I personally cannot wait for the first signs of spring to reappear on campus and watch the seasons change as they do so predictably every year. May your 2021 be renewed with new energy, hope and possibilities for the future!