THEME: LIFE BALANCE
From Scripture:
Bible reading: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.
A prayer:
Dear Heavenly Father as we grow into adulthood, please help us to have the balance of putting you in the place in the life that you should be and us in a lesser position.
Amen
Navigating Life’s Challenges with Faith: Finding Balance, Reducing Stress, and Easing Pressure
A Balanced Scale
Life’s journey as a teenage boy can sometimes feel like a winding path, filled with both moments of joy and challenges.
The bible reading today beautifully captures the various seasons of life.
As mentioned, there’s a time for everything—a time to plant, a time to reap, a time to laugh, and a time to mourn. This wisdom reminds us that life is a mix of different experiences, and finding balance is key to reducing stress and pressure. With faith as your compass, here are some tips to guide you on this journey:
Prioritize Self-Care: Just as the seasons change, there’s a time for rest and renewal. Taking care of yourself is a form of stewardship over the body and mind that you’ve been blessed with. Get enough sleep, nourish your body, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
Embrace Your Passions: There’s a time to embrace and a time to refrain. Pursue your passions with dedication and zest, but also remember to take breaks and find moments of stillness. Your passions can be outlets for expressing your faith and creativity.
Set Realistic Goals: Just as there’s a time to plant and a time to reap, set goals that align with the seasons of your life. Set achievable goals, work diligently, and celebrate your progress. Remember that your worth isn’t solely defined by accomplishments.
Relaxation Oasis
Time Management: Learning to manage your time effectively is essential. Create schedules that honour your commitments and also leave room for moments of rest and reflection.
Stay Connected: Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who uplift your spirits in times of laughter and stand by you during times of challenge.
Mindfulness and Relaxation: Engage in mindfulness practices, such as meditation or prayer, to quiet your mind and find solace in your faith.
Learn to Say No: Just as there’s a time to embrace and a time to refrain, it’s important to discern when to take on new commitments and when to say no. Prioritize your well-being and make choices that align with your values.
Talk About It: In challenging times, gather the support of trusted mentors, friends, and family. Share your feelings, and allow their wisdom and comfort to guide you.
Climbing Mountains of Resilience
Embrace Failure: Ecclesiastes 3:6 mentions a time to search and a time to give up. Embrace failures as opportunities for growth. Just as the climb up a mountain is tough, it’s through challenges that you build resilience and draw closer to your faith.
Unplug and Recharge: In Ecclesiastes 3:2, we’re reminded that there’s a time to plant and a time to uproot. Similarly, there’s a time to unplug from technology and reconnect with nature, your faith, and your inner self.
Conclusion
Remember, your faith can be a guiding light through the seasons of life. By finding balance, reducing stress, and easing pressure, you’re aligning your journey with the wisdom shared. May your faith provide you with strength and grace as you navigate the ups and downs. Keep the faith, keep striving, and know that you are capable of incredible growth.
STAFFING MATTERS
Congratulations to two of our staff on their recent promotions;
- Mr Patterson has been promoted to Deputy Headmaster: Behaviour Management
- Ms Cilliers has been promoted to Subject Head: GET Phase [F2 and F3]
College’s talented NGUNI SOCIETY gave a beautiful tribute to women – Ngiyabonga iqembu yabantu abenze kahle
SPORT & CULTURE
Maritzburg College’s hockey and rugby teams travelled to Glenwood for the last fixtures of the season, while the soccer teams faced Hillcrest High at home. College’s golfers, cyclists, canoeists and squash players were also in action with some good results.
Full sporting results are here.
SPORT AND CULTURAL AWARDS:
CERTIFICATES OF RECOGNITION
ACADEMICS:
Our 6th formers have two more weeks before they write their very important Trial Examinations Common Test programme has begun,. Whilst we thoroughly enjoy all the amazing opportunities and activities at College in clubs, societies or sports field, the ultimate prize is to do as best you can in your academic programme. It is essential that this must be at the forefront of all you do, and that you meet all requirements in this regard. For the 6th formers, please ensure that you seek support and guidance, and advice in subjects in which you require additional assistance. Do note leave this any longer. The time is NOW.
Thank you – wishing you a good week
Pro Aris et Focis
CL Luman (Headmaster)