As we approach the shortest day of the year when there is more darkness than light and the cold bitter wind whips down the Dale, our instinct is to withdraw into the warmth, to unwind and seek comfort. Another year draws to a close and the darkness envelopes us, but it is at this time of year that we enter into a time of feasting and celebration, of sharing and giving, and of giving thanks for the gift of hope.
Travelling through the Dale, strings of twinkling lights have begun to illuminate homes, trees and shop windows. Like the star shining on a tiny infant, the symbol of hope and rebirth, we are reminded that out of darkness comes light, out of despair comes hope. This is the Greatest Show…
This year in school we had three outstanding shows to celebrate the season: Bah Humbug, performed by years 4,5 and 6; The INN-Spectors, performed by years 1, 2 and 3; and The Sleepy Shepherd, performed by our Early Years’ Unit. The message of Bah Humbug was to open closed hearts and embrace generosity of spirit. It reminded us that there is, despite everything, hope for all of us. The INN-Spectors was a celebration of the Nativity with the message of humble hope: a donkey, a stable and a baby in a manger. The little ones, adorned with curtains for robes and tinsel crowns, reminded us of the message of love and hope through the birth of a holy baby, a gift to the world, wrapped in swaddling clothes in The Sleepy Shepherd. The children all did so well performing various aspects the Greatest Show: the birth of Jesus- the gift of hope.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
