Focus on…Character
“Whatever is true, whatever is honourable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” Philippians 4:8
“More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” Romans 5:3-4
Definition of Character
“Character is a trait, quality or high moral code and belief: the mental and moral qualities distinctive to an individual. It defines how we treat or behave with others and ourselves.”
What is Good Character?
“Good character is more important than wealth, good looks, popularity and even education. These things do not guarantee happiness and often become obstacles to developing good character.’
Michael Josephson
CHARACTER OF A COLLEGE HEART
‘Remember that when you leave this earth, you can take with you nothing that you have received… only what you have given: a full heart enriched by honest service, love, sacrifice and courage.’ Francis of Assisi [Franciscan Monk in 13th Century]
These are the 16 traits of a College Heart listed on page 44 of the Character Education book that each boy is given. Ideally, we need to apply the following in a personal, relational and communal contexts.
- BE LOVING
Live abundantly! Give of yourself to others by creating positive relationships that inspire and build up the health of all people. Care deeply and act generously for the wellbeing of all.
- BE GRATEFUL
Be thankful! Reflect on the good things that you find in your own life. Find joy in all the ways that your life and relationships are wonderful today.
- BE AWARE
Expand your vision of the world! Reflect on your inner life and outer actions, your friends and relationships, the feelings and needs of others and your place and impact on the world
- BE PATIENT
Let things happen in their time! Don’t unnecessarily force events or rush others to make progress. Be calm and collected.
- BE HONEST
Think, speak and act in truthful ways! Do not lie to yourself or to others. Be true to the things you believe in.
- BE WISE
Use knowledge in life giving ways! Think about how what you know, can be applied to the world in ways that are healthy for yourself, others and the world.
- BE COMPASSIONATE
Show kindness and empathy to others! Reflect on the hardship and suffering of others and seek to ease their pain and serve their needs.
- DO GOOD
Act in ways that benefit life and health! Look for opportunities to do things that make the world a better place for all of creation.
- BE FAITHFUL
Be a person who can be trusted! Walk the talk. Do what you say you will. Stand by your promises and commitments.
- GIVE RESPECT
Treat others with dignity! Value people for their positive qualities, for their abilities, for their vulnerability. Respect people in their difference.
- SERVE SACRIFICIALLY [servant leadership]
Help others even if it is costly. Be willing to give up time, resources and status to serve others. Give and don’t expect to be paid back.
‘For it is in giving that we receive.’ Francis of Assisi
- BUILD COMMUNITY
Be part of a group that makes a difference in one another’s lives! Contribute to that community by doing things that build the group up and help it to achieve its goals.
- WORK FOR JUSTICE
Seek what is fair for all people! Speak out for those in need. Stand up against wrong doing. Defend those who are vulnerable.
- SEEK RECONCILIATION
Mend relationships between people! Seek forgiveness, be forgiving and make reparation. Do not seek revenge but peace and harmony.
- INSPIRE HOPE
Help others to see a positive future! Be resilient in dealing with difficult events and act in ways that move forward.
- BE COURAGEOUS
Don’t be afraid to do the right thing! Act in ways that are true to yourself. Stand up for the truth and for the good of others.
MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
College is participating in an online Revue show recorded with GHS and Epworth which will be released later month on the National Arts Festival Online Platform. Today in assembly we showed a short piece of this rendition of ‘Nothing like a dame ‘ from South Pacific
Please join me in congratulating all the performers, Mr Stickells and the team. We wish them every success for the festival.
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION
Congratulations to L Magwaza who has been appointed as Marketing Team Captain for 2021.
LEVEL 2 COVID
Last week we had another two positive Covid cases – now for 2021. A reminder to PLEASE continue to be vigilant around the protocols at school and at home and with your social interactions. Parents have also been emailed to assist the school in this regard as you approach your mid-year assessments which are very important. These of course start in two weeks’ time, the requirements of which are you should by now be familiar with and are all available on EdAdmin app for both you and your parents which you should download.
BEHAVIOUR
There are still a number of boys who are getting themselves into serious trouble and being suspended for making irresponsible and impulsive decisions . They have to attend external discipline hearings and placing their future at College in doubt. Gentlemen be sensible; focus on being attentive and behaving in class, prepare for your controlled tests and assessment; meet you co-curricular commitments and behave yourselves. It is quite simple
WEEK AHEAD
As far as sport and cultural activities are concerned, an amended programme with respect to contact sports has been arranged. Please continue with those and ensure that you do meet the demands and attend.
I wish you all a very good week.
Pro Aris et Focis