We are right into our third term now and things are much closer to “normal” school running than we were early last term. Our hearts and prayers go out to families in other states and countries who are not enjoying the freedoms we are right now, and also to our families with relatives and friends in Lebanon following the Beirut explosion. I have recently enjoyed an extended break travelling around in outback South Australia visiting places like the Gammon Ranges, Innamincka, Gawler Ranges and the Eyre Peninsula. I would like to give a big thank you to all the staff at PPN who so ably filled in for me, in particular, Mr Davis and Miss Bernoth.

While I was away, I spent quite a bit of time fishing at various places. Some places were inland rivers like Cooper Creek, and also in the sea over at Fowler’s Bay. I am afraid to say that in all the hours I spent fishing, I didn’t catch one thing. During that time, I must admit there were moments of frustration, but as I have thought about it, I have come to the conclusion that at this time, the aim of my fishing wasn’t necessarily about catching fish. I know that sounds a bit like an excuse (might be a little bit), but the thinking, reflecting, relaxing I was able to do during that time was very valuable. It was about the fishing rather than the fish.

I am pretty sure there is a life lesson for all of us here. The hustle, bustle and business of raising a family can be crazy sometimes, and we can constantly be looking forward to when things are easier, or simpler. The trouble is, we miss out on the experience of everyday things if we only focus on the end. There is a danger that we miss out on the wonders of the commonplace things, if we are always idealising about the future. I guess I’m talking about the old saying of stopping to smell the roses. There aren’t a lot of roses to stop and smell on the banks of Cooper Creek, but there were many other amazing animals and birds and people around and also quietness and calm to allow peace and reflection.

Jesus put it this way in Matthew 6:23, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.” This does give good direction. It is not always easy to do though.

One author I read recently suggested that our current environment is controlling our thoughts so much, it is like being on some sort of medication. He wrote, ” The ongoing deluge of intriguing facts and commentary, scandal and crisis, genuinely important guidance combined with the latest insider news from across the globe and our friend’s personal lives, gives the soul a medicated feeling of awareness and connection, and meaning.” (Eldridge, 2020)

I hope in this time of constantly breaking news, when we are bombarded by the concerns and worries of this world we live in, you and your family can find time to enjoy the beauty of the everyday.

Have a great week with your kids,

Mark B