Nau mai haere mai!

Welcome back to all our staff, students, parents and community members to a very busy Term Four.

Senior students will be working hard to prepare for the upcoming NCEA external examinations. A selection of our Year 9/10 students will be completing the co-requisites for literacy and numeracy in the coming weeks.

A huge congratulations to Abigail Paton who was selected in the Under 18 NZ Barbarians Rugby Team that played the NZ Maori Under 18 team over the holiday period. Abigail played outstandingly well being a player of the team, scoring a try and converting this.

As we dive into a busy term it is important that we do not forget that no matter how busy we get we must also have a thought for others around us and display kindness.

In a world filled with complexities, where we are constantly bombarded with news of division, strife, and conflicts, just look at the war in Ukraine and the recent events in Israel and Palestine not to mention a very aggressive election campaign in New Zealand - kindness stands as a beacon of hope. It is a virtue that knows no boundaries and has the power to bridge gaps, heal wounds, and build bridges.

Kindness is not just a random act of generosity or a fleeting emotion; it is a way of life, a choice we make every day. It is the willingness to extend a helping hand to those in need, to offer a warm smile to a stranger, and to treat others with respect and empathy.

It is a force that can counteract hatred, bigotry, and prejudice.

In a world where differences are often magnified, kindness reminds us of our shared humanity. It reminds us that despite our diverse backgrounds and beliefs, we all crave the same things – love, understanding, and acceptance. Kindness reminds us that we are all on this journey of life together, and we can make it more meaningful by supporting one another.

Kindness is not a sign of weakness; it is a mark of strength. It takes courage to be kind, especially in the face of adversity. It takes strength to resist the urge to retaliate and instead respond with compassion. It takes character to choose kindness when it would be easier to be indifferent.

Moreover, the effects of kindness are not limited to the recipient; they extend to the giver as well. When we practise kindness, we experience a sense of fulfilment and joy that material possessions cannot provide. It connects us to our better selves and enriches our lives in ways that are immeasurable.

I challenge you all to make a commitment to prioritise kindness in your lives. Let us strive to be kind not only to those we know and hang out with but also to those we encounter in our daily lives. Let us make an effort to understand the struggles of others, to lend a helping hand when needed, and to spread positivity wherever we go.

Kindness has the power to break down barriers, and to create a more harmonious and compassionate world. It is not a grand gesture that requires great resources; it is a simple act that can have profound consequences. 

Let's all have kindness at the heart of all interactions that we have with each other.

Nga mihi nui

Marcus Cooper

Tumuaki/Principal

East Otago High School