"Grit is the ability to dig deep into oneself and have resolve to get the right things accomplished no matter how difficult"

One thing I have noticed in the past two weeks in ‘developed’ countries of the world (which I would consider NZ one of the more developed), there is no advantage any one country has over another as far as science, technology, affluence goes. We don’t have the science yet to cure the disease caused by the COVID-19 virus. Money has not been able to slow the rapid spread. If anything the ability to afford travel has increased the spread of the virus. Technology only eases any discomfort of isolation.

The countries that seem to be coping better are those that have other traits. Traits like:

• Strong leadership - People willing to step up and make decisions based on the best information at hand and follow through on those decisions.

• Unity - Groups willing to act as a whole, sacrifice as a whole.

• A strong moral compass - Be kind. People who are willing to show empathy and change their lifestyle for others whom they don’t know and will never know.

I feel fortunate, no grateful, that I live in New Zealand where these traits are strong. In my younger years (a long time ago), I likely felt that you either had these traits or didn’t. I feel differently now.

I see our Roncalli Community stepping up in many ways because they emulate these traits. Students are creating Facebook groups to give support to students and families who need it, PE students creating activities for our community, student leaders having Instagram contests to keep students and staff involved and connected. Staff have also risen to the occasion by converting to online learning in a matter of days, calling all of our families to see if they need support, and supporting each other through numerous means.

This is not something that just happens; it has been ingrained in our student community through numerous activities: participating in Young Marist Leadership activities, working in community soup kitchens, collecting for various causes, supporting the Seafarers, participating in house activities, Year level retreats, and I could go on. Our students help create an environment of unity and caring. It’s just who we are as Roncallians and it is good to see that continue and grow.

Finally, I think there is one more trait that we will be tested on in the weeks and months ahead. This is what I call 'grit'. To me, grit is the ability to dig deep into oneself and have resolve to get the right things accomplished no matter how difficult. I do not question our students' resolve. We have talked about grit in assemblies; lived it in our competitions; and practiced it in our studies, sports and extracurriculars. 

While I think we have some tough times ahead, I am optimistic that as a whole our Roncalli Community is up for it. In the House Walk on Athletics Day, it doesn’t matter who finishes first or how fast you go. What matters is if your House can get everyone over the line in the allotted time. The best House is not the one with the fastest walkers or best athletes. It is the House that works the best as a unit and lifts up those who are struggling. The best House is the one that shows their strength by working together.