The power of a community in action is a wonderful thing to behold, particularly when faced with real adversity. As Head of Junior School, Mr Peter McDonald has noted, U is for Ukraine. The international community is uniting in opposition to the Russian invasion. Closer to home, Australia continues to lead an international aid effort to support Tonga, after our Pacific neighbours were struck by a 6.2 magnitude earthquake after a volcanic eruption and tsunami in late January. And in Queensland and northern New South Wales, the “mud army” is assembling once more to begin cleaning up, after ‘rain bomb’ flooding has devastated communities along Australia’s east coast.
It’s easy to see the tragedy in each of these scenes. Lives upended, possessions destroyed. It feels like there’s a world of hurt surrounding us, and everywhere we look a heightened sense of concern, or despair. But out of this, rises something truly inspirational. In spite of every challenge, every trial, and every adversity, the goodness of humanity always overcomes.
Goodness, selflessness, courage and kindness. Compassion and care for our brothers and sisters, for the young and the elderly, regardless of race, regardless of religion. And as one small member of that much larger community, I could not be more proud of who we are, what we stand for, and how we give of ourselves to serve those who are in need.
A community is a life force with a unique ecosystem, requiring, like the act of breathing, that you give as well as receive. I wonder, when you look at your communities, if you can see those patterns within the whole and within yourself. My hope is that you can take a moment to appreciate what you receive, and also consider what it is you have to give.
Ms Ellena Papas
Executive Director (Operations)