The Paradox of Beginnings and Endings 

A beautiful Spring day like today prompts reflection on the connection between seasonal change and school cycles which lends itself to exploring perspectives on renewal and endings. The days have grown a little longer and the flowers are in full blossom in Australia. While in the Northern Hemisphere, Spring is the start of a new year and fresh academic terms, in Australia, it is actually the lead-up to the end—a countdown to the close of the calendar year and, for students, the approach of the final term in the classes they have been in. 

We are starting the final stretch before Christmas and the long summer break.  It is not too early to start reflecting on the year gone by and anticipating what lies ahead. Before we know it, we will be celebrating endings and looking forward to the transition into the next year level.  

Thus, while in the natural world, our flower gardens are full of colour now, this season also signals the conclusion of academic journeys reminding us that every beginning is intimately linked with an ending.  I am reminded of the rich Biblical imagery about new beginnings and the importance of preparation for what is to come.  Passages like Isaiah 43:19 declare: “See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?”  reflect the theme of renewal and God’s ongoing work in the world. 

For us in Australia, Spring is an impressive time—brimming with life yet edged with closure. It is a season that encourages reflection, growth, and readiness for both endings and beginnings. The school cycle and the colourful landscape, offer a powerful reminder: every new beginning carries within it the seeds of an ending, and every ending is the opportunity for a new start. As we journey through Spring and the final term, may we embrace renewal, prepare wisely, and find hope in the promise of all things made new. 

In this new term, students are reminded to finish well, to reflect and to ready themselves for new challenges and adventures in the coming year.  How are you embracing change and transformation?  How are you stepping into newness?