“We live in a culture that’s constantly reminding us what’s missing in our lives. But as ancient wisdom has long known, happiness comes not from acquiring more, but from deep appreciation for what’s already there. And when we deliberately take the time to recognize all there is to appreciate, we are uplifted by the powerful force of gratitude.”
– Chris Advansun
Dear Jarrow Parents,
I was once told a story about a young boy who became an apprentice to a silversmith somewhere in Portugal. He had sought out the finest master in the land, a renowned artist and alchemist, one whose reputation shone as brightly as his work. The boy was an avid student, a responsive learner, and his skills grew steadily under the guidance of his master.
As we know, to be an apprentice to any master is not something quick. Achieving excellence, much like wisdom takes years and extends deeply into a lifetime. But Julio was impatient. HIs skills were good, superior perhaps, and he was eager to return to his own town and set up shop.
“Master,” he said one day, “my work has been steady and I have been a faithful student. I now seek your blessing to return to my home and begin work on my own.”
Of course, Julio was free to go at any time, but such was his respect for the master that he would not depart without a blessing. Again and again, Julio received admonition from his beloved teacher for patience. “Persevere, my son, you create your own reward.”
Difficult as it was, and impatient as Julio had become, he did not leave. Time passed and Julio worked on, with even greater diligence. And who’s to say exactly why – or on what day the decisive blessing finally came. The master’s voice was filled with warmth and respect as he leaned toward his student to say, “Julio, it is now time for you to return home.”
The master embraced his student, tears were brief but true, Julio looked brightly into his master’s eyes and began preparations to leave. Then the master offered one last gift. He extended a large cloth bag toward his student, that was filled with the work of Julio’s own hand; heavy with silver so fine the young Julio could scarcely hold it.
Oh, dear Parents,
In this season of change, as signs of spring emerge amidst concerning world news, as we share the grace and privilege of our days at Jarrow and eagerly prepare for our new Head of School, may we deliberately take time to recognize all there is to appreciate, and be uplifted by the powerful force of gratitude within this incredible life and work we share.
In partnership,
Mary Zeman, Interim Head of School
on behalf of Mercedes Dugan, Associate Interim Head of School
and our faculty and staff