As we enter the time of ADVENT, I offer part of a reflection by Helen Healy from ACPConnect.

At this time ‘if you are anything like me, then you will probably be in the time of lists! Lists of social events; lists of school events and things to do; lists of responsibilities; lists of family things to remember, do or prepare for. So when someone says, “slow down, relax, take time for yourself!” you are probably going to want to scream or throw something, or both!

On a serious note, Advent is a time to really be aware of your wellbeing and try to decrease some of the stresses. What is the best way you can think of to be able to survive these next few weeks?

Maybe it is writing down a list of all things circling around in your head so that you are not having to remember them constantly. Personally I find that most helpful at night: to empty the mind onto paper and then turn out the light and get some quality sleep. I wish sometimes that, like Harry Potter,  I had a pensieve where I could take out all my thoughts and put them into a bowl to review them at leisure!.

During this time as we prepare for Christmas, ‘ask God to prepare your heart this Advent and to reawaken your spirit so that you might more fully make the paths straight for him in life and in your work. Give thanks to God for any experience you may have had during your contemplative time.'

I can’t believe how quickly this year has flown by. This will be the last newsletter for 2023 and from me at Sacred Heart Primary. A reminder newsletter will be sent out next week with details for the beginning of 2024.

I wish to take this opportunity to express my deep and heartfelt gratitude to the community of Sacred Heart and the Mary Help of Christian Parish. It has been a great privilege to lead this beautiful school and I will miss you all very much as you have been a blessing in my life.

I wish to thank my amazing staff for every single day that I have worked with them. Their dedication and generous hearts are to be celebrated. They have enriched my life and made me a better person and educator. We are truly blessed at Sacred Heart to have so many excellent people committed to their work in all its complexity.

In conclusion I leave you with a quote from a book I read this year - 'The Happiest Man on Earth' by Eddie Jakui

Eddie says

“Happiness does not fall from the sky; it is in your hands. Happiness comes from inside yourself and from the people you love. And if you are happy and healthy, you are a millionaire.”

God’s blessings and love to each of you and happy Christmas.

Take care and keep safe