I recall advice from my mother, “Don’t talk about politics or religion at dinner parties.” With Good Friday looming, I will deviate from the norm this time. One of my goals in my first year as Head is to reinforce who we are and what we believe at GWA.
These are two principles listed right under our mission statement:
· We believe in Judeo-Christian values, while respecting the heritage and beliefs of others.
· We foster a welcoming, inclusive community where our students feel safe.
Our goal at GWA is to know and love every single student. To quote one of my favorite pastors, Andy Stanley, we believe in drawing circles, not lines, where people feel included. We don’t want to divide or exclude. We seek to draw a very BIG circle, big enough to include everyone.
As we move through this joyous Easter Week, let’s keep the big circle firmly in mind. Whether your family recognizes Jesus Christ as the most influential figure in human history, or embraces Him as a personal Lord and Savior, or is somewhere in between, please have faith that, at George Walton Academy, we accept you, love and affirm your children, and are thankful and blessed that you are a special part of our extended family.
When I asked for advice on my Easter message this morning, a longstanding 10th grade mom shared this, “Come as you are; everyone is welcome at George Walton. Let’s walk the walk more than talk the talk.” Her comment reminds me of the advice from a mentor, former Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School President Pastor Dr. Karl Anderson. “People would rather see a sermon than hear one.”
My prayer for the GWA Family this Easter is straightforward: To model the values reflected in the life of Christ: unconditional love and acceptance of others, regardless of station in life; humility of spirit; and a genuine forgiveness of those who may have trespassed against us. Let’s strive always to let things roll off our back.
Godspeed this Easter and best wishes for a restful and rejuvenating Spring Break!
John
