‘Go placidly amid the noise and the haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence. As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others.’ (Desiderata, Max Ehrmann, 1927).

I keep a copy of Desiderata on my kitchen wall and it often gives me cause for reflection, followed by a lovely sense of calm. The prose is a gentle reminder to keep things in perspective, to accept graciously our place in the world and to focus attention on the things that matter most. We have had a terrific start to this term already. If nothing else, it has affirmed my growing passion for this College and the great outcomes that can be achieved from common purpose. 

As we enjoyed the first of our celebrations for the SMC Class of 2018, at today’s Leavers Assembly, I shared these final lines of Desiderata, in hopes that we send our girls on their way with full heads and hearts, and that they might keep things in perspective, accept graciously their place in the world and focus attention on the things that matter most. May they do the same for you. 

‘You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should. Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be. And whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace in your soul. With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be cheerful. Strive to be happy.’