Letter from the Principal - December 2018

December 12, 2018

Dear Parents/Guardians,

Greetings during this season of Advent. These weeks before Christmas are meant to be a time of hope, peace, and prayerful reflection as we await the coming of Jesus. Somehow, we do just the opposite. We hurry about to prepare rather than slowing down to prepare.

During this season of Advent, let’s slow down and make a conscientious effort to practice and model mindfulness.

As a school community, we spent Monday talking about mental health. In today's culture, students are increasingly more stressed and anxious. By practicing mindfulness during the holidays, we help students to slow down. Let’s spend time reinforcing our support networks for our teenagers. Spend time together as a family and with friends. Watch a movie, play games, or bake cookies with your kids. Decorate the Christmas tree. Light the candles on your Advent wreath. Go to Christmas Mass together. Ask your family to share a “device-free” Christmas with you as a gift. It’s meaningful and free. Talk with one another.

Of course, don’t forget that the teenagers in our lives need support. CDH offers many student-centered activities during the Advent and Christmas season. Attend the Band and Choir Christmas Concert tonight. Cheer on the Raiders at one of our many sporting events or holiday tournaments. Help them with their homework.

My wish for all of you is that you receive the gift of time for loved ones and also find time for quiet solitude. Pray. Sleep. Read. Look at the lights. Do nothing at all.

May you find true peace and joy this season. Have a very blessed Christmas.