Murray Williams pays homage to principal
EACH of us is blessed, in such different ways. One blessing which means most is a school principal who treasures you. Especially in primary school. Because with that start in life, anything is possible.
Five years ago, I reflected on my schooling at a small, multiracial school, founded in 1948 – in defiance of the forces sweeping South Africa at the time.
Today, I repeat those words, in honour of my first headmaster. One day, a diminutive Xhosa man stood up in Parliament and said, softly: “I am an African. I owe my being to the hills and the valleys, the mountains and the glades, the rivers, the deserts, the trees, the flowers, the seas and the ever-changing seasons that define the face of our native land.” (Thabo Mbeki, 1996, passing the new constitution.)
Similarly, on the school I attended long ago, my words would have been: “I am a schoolboy. I stand here today on this little patch of land at the southern tip of Africa…
“Here, since I was a very little boy, the trees, flowers and I have all soaked up the sunshine and fresh water from the mountains which surround us.
“Here, I’ve taken my first steps exploring, from the adventure playground to the classroom and inquisitively into the world beyond.
“Here, as I clutched my first paintbrush, I learnt the joy of colour, the technicoloured richness of life around us.
“Here, from my teachers’ readings, I first learnt the world of imagination, wonder!
“Here, on our playgrounds and sports fields, I’ve discovered the treasures of camaraderie and friendship.
“Here, at this school filled with music, I’ve learnt humility – from the delightful chords and concertos I know I will never master.
“Here, as I’ve looked up at our towering oak trees, I’ve learnt respect – for those who bless us with their protection and shade.
“Here, watching everyone from headmasters to gardeners, at their equally valuable tasks, I’ve learnt the power of dignity – the gift given to every human being that can never ever be taken away, regardless of circumstance.
“Like a plant draws nutrients from the soil, so I have drawn my values from this place. Here, I’ve been given the space to confidently become me.
“When I left for high school, I knew, as a simple fact of nature, this place was now part of me.
“And so, little school, let me be clear: I am never saying goodbye. I’m taking you with me.” RIP Peter Rickards. A principal who blessed us with our freedom to be.