As the term winds down, the pace of things here on The Hill slows a fraction. Now I’m not much of a poetry buff. I do have some favourites and this week I was drawn to a poem written by John Donne, English poet, scholar and cleric of the mid-1500 – early 1600s. Perhaps his most famous contribution to the art of verse is titled, “No Man is an Island”. Understanding the language of the poem isn’t that inclusive given the time of writing, if you replace “man” and “mankind” with “person” and “humankind”, then the sentiment can be transferred to all of us regardless of gender, ideology, colour, religion etc.
No Man is an Island - By John Donne
No man is an island,
Entire of itself;
Every man is a piece of the continent,
A part of the main.
If a clod be washed away by the sea,
Europe is the less,
As well as if a promontory were:
As well as if a manor of thy friend's
Or of thine own were.
Any man's death diminishes me,
Because I am involved in mankind.
And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls;
It tolls for thee.
Donne explores the interconnectedness of humanity and the impact of loss. He asserts that no individual is isolated, but rather that each individual is an integral part of the broader human collective. So why this poem? Well, recent world events have precipitated an inundation of vehement and intense reactions; these being broadcast on television or streamed on social media platforms. Many of them claiming outrage and laying blame, some pointing to extreme remedial and retaliatory action.
Sadly, our young men are exposed to these commentaries daily and assuredly they will be affected in one way or another. It behoves us as a school community in the Edmund Rice Tradition, based on Catholic faith and social teaching, to ensure that we remain true to the values that unite rather than the beliefs that divide us. In holding true to our Touchstones of Gospel Spirituality, Liberating Education, Justice and Solidarity and Inclusive Community we can create a space where our young men flourish. We can build skills in them whereby they are prepared with logic, knowledge, some healthy scepticism to view the world that is presented to them. Importantly, that as Eddies Men, they are responsive, faith-filled and compassionate in addressing the ways of an increasingly more complex and morally indistinct world.
We are none of us entire of ourselves. As a team we can take some of the sting out of the outrage levelled by self-styled experts, in multiple forums over the course of every day by –
- Modelling Calm Curiosity
Responding to disagreement with curiosity instead of anger
“That’s an interesting point — what makes you feel strongly about it?” - Normalising Complexity
Understanding that issues are rarely black and white, encourage “both/and” rather than “either/or” thinking.
“It’s okay to agree with some parts of what someone says and disagree with others.” - Teaching Emotional Literacy
Helping name and regulate emotions when discussing tough topics.
“It’s okay to feel upset or confused. Let’s talk about what’s behind that feeling.”
On a more optimistic note, our young men will be the hope of the future. They will lead us into the decades to come. Our goal shouldn’t be to control their opinions, rather to help them develop the tools to think critically, feel deeply and act ethically.
No person is an island, each Eddies Man is a part of the whole, a member of our community, a piece of a bigger world. May the weeks to come be a time for them to de-tune, turn off and power down screens and importantly, may they be a time where restful and relaxing pursuits, ready them for the final term of 2025.
Challenge Camp
Meanwhile, as part of the Rite Journey program this week our Year 10s experienced The Challenge Camp. Held at the Emu Gully Outdoor Education facility site near Helidon; over three days our young men were pushed out of their comfort zone, developing resilience and taking opportunities to develop independence.
Activities based on the experiences of Australian diggers in past campaigns and going by names such as the Malayan Campaign 1 & 2, Beersheba, The Homefront, Tank, Templeton’s Crossing, The Hindenburg Line, Bringing up the Guns and Digger James Hill meant there were many tired and muddy boys who returned home on Wednesday.
Sadly, it wasn’t hard to notice the absence of some students. While there are always valid reasons for not attending, I would truly stress the importance of these shared experiences. Activities like interhouse days, retreats and importantly The Challenge Camp offer unique opportunities for personal growth and community building that simply can’t be replicated in the classroom.
To the families who made this camp a priority — thank you. Your support helped create an environment where our young men could, laugh, grow, thrive and build the relationships that will hold them in good stead for their leadership journey over the next few years. To those who weren’t able to join this time, the College looks forward to welcoming everyone at future events. Every Eddies Man deserves the chance to be part of these enriching experiences.
Performing Arts Evening and Cultural Showcase
This week has presented a cavalcade of talent. On Monday evening our Junior School musicians exhibited the not inconsiderable musical skills they’ve gained over the course of the year. While on Thursday night St Edmund’s and St Mary’s combined to stage an exhibition of ability par excellence.
Congratulations to all. Well done on two wonderful evenings.
