Where happiness begins; one toast at a time 

Our chaplains, assisted by an SSO, run a Breakfast Club on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  This is an “extra” thing that creates connections for their ministry, a service to the students who most times could use just that little bit of toast to fill their tummies before they go to class.  I had the privilege of observing the interactions around the breakfast table as the children chose their spreads and helped themselves to as much bread as they would like.  Their excitement as they came to eat, and the joy on their faces showed how much they enjoyed and looked forward to having breakfast together.  Hopefully the Foundation students will start coming in for breakfast as well once they know their way around the school. 

The student’s happiness and appreciation of the service got me thinking about the joys of anticipation and the excitement of a simple need fulfilled.  When something as small as a piece of bread can give someone so much pleasure, it becomes clear some of the things we need to learn from children and the simple joys that children should be encouraged to continue with as they grow up. 

The cheerful atmosphere created by the chaplains and the SSO who supports them to prepare the breakfast is not something that is missing to the children.  This is obvious when the students stop, smile and say good morning to the team before they reach for their bread. Some of them even stop to chat and the chaplains know them by name.  There were personal conversations where the students shared some of their stories.  The interactions were just beautiful.   

With deep appreciation for our Breakfast Club champions, here are some questions to consider:  What simple things make your days great?  What are you thankful for, no matter how small?  Who are you serving and bringing good cheer to today, this week or any other time?