What a year 2020 has been! Faced with adversity, the GUS community once again came together to trust and go forward and forward we did. While there is still a long way to go, here at GUS, we find hope in the promise of a new day and the warmth of community.

Solstice is my favorite of the GUS traditions. What I love most about solstice is the idea that the darkness will end and tomorrow there will be more light. What an important message every year, but this year most of all. 

Everywhere at GUS, sparks of dedication and inspiration, compassion and kindness, generosity and understanding shine like stars in a winter sky, bringing calm, peace and hope to our community and allowing us to trust and go forward, confident that tomorrow will be a brighter day. 

How grateful we all are, teachers and students especially, that we have been able to take comfort in community these past weeks. Coming back to school, having stability and routine, has no doubt been a light during a difficult time. I’ve also seen the light twinkling in children’s eyes, as they smile behind their masks, skipping into school, or as they wave during morning meetings from here or from home. There is something special illuminating our classrooms as teachers share their passions, their dedication never faltering, connecting with their students, and delivering on our mission. And there is warmth in the laughter that pours in through open windows during recess and in the whoops of camaraderie as students return from PE. This week, we even felt the fun and glow of that internal sparkler that flickers with anticipation of a snow day! Online or in person, the bright warmth of the community coming together to learn and grow has been a great comfort and has brought real joy.

Given all we have seen this past year, now more than ever, we must look for the light. Reflecting on what fills us up, keeps us going, and means so much, we asked all community members to share what lights up their lives. We recognize the power of the little things that truly make a big difference. From family and friends to interests and hobbies, to tenderness and love, it is true, as Gandhi said, “In the midst of darkness, light persists.”

Light persists and so do we! So as we do every year, we give thanks, we celebrate community, and we take comfort in the promise of tomorrow. We relish the relationships that light up our lives and cherish the warmth of community, especially here at GUS. And this year, in particular, we recognize the hope and promise the Solstice represents, not just here but everywhere. On behalf of the entire Glen Urquhart School community, I wish you health and happiness this holiday season and the whole year through. May we always find the light as we trust and go forward together.

Happy Holidays from all of us at the Glen Urquhart School