Dreaming of a Future So Fitting: Thanksgiving Wishes to Our Community

In October, we held a Blessing of our Redwood Grove before our annual Harvest Fair to commemorate the 35 new trees planted on and around the knoll as part of our very exciting Outdoor Learning Initiative. (Click here to learn more about this exciting initiative!) At that time, I mentioned that Sin-ree-yo-ku is the Japanese art of spending time in the woods with purpose. According to this ancient tradition, the act of inhaling forest air strengthens the immune system and calms the nervous system. I invite families to spend time over the holiday together on a hike to enjoy the benefits of the fortifying forest air.

 

Also at the Blessing of our Redwood Grove, I read a poem that is very special to our school, Autumn Inaugural. It was written to celebrate the opening of our new campus in 2000 by Dana Gioia. Mr. Gioia is an alumni parent, as well as the former Chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts, and current Poet Laureate of California. He is one of America’s most eminent poets writing today.

 

I had so many positive comments about the poem, as well as surprise to learn of its significance to SCDS, that I shared it again at the Grandparents and Special Friends Day Assembly this week. I noted that guests may also enjoy reading it on the wall in the West Gallery, near the office.

 

I offer many blessings for a joyful Thanksgiving in the company of family and friends and more peace and goodness in our country and world.

 

Brad Weaver, EdD

Head of School

That our desire will bring it into being."