Thought for the Week

A WISE person once said: ‘One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say.’

It seems to me that good honest debating skills have been lost, only to be replaced with rudeness and constant interruption.

The recent election campaign in America has probably been the nastiest and most offensive of all time.

There was no courtesy or respect, no listening and no grace.

The most powerful country on the planet set an appalling example to the world.

In contrast, I was delighted to catch a report on Radio Four about an educational institution in London called School 21.

It is a small, state-funded mixed school for children aged four to 18.

It is a school where children feel safe to learn, safe to find their voice and to grow into exceptional people.

As important as reading and writing, oracy is also included in the curriculum.

In oracy, children learn how to express themselves and communicate clearly. They become able to explain ideas and emotions to other people.

The children refer to this as learning ‘to share the air’ with others respectfully.

If only we could learn ‘to share the air’ with others.

If only our politicians would learn ‘to share the air’ we might actually find out what their message is.

There is a teacher here who has ‘shared the air’ with several generations and has encouraged children to become the best they can be.

She retires today after an outstanding career and this community will miss her greatly.

We wish her every blessing and we are privileged to have ‘shared the air’ with the much respected Miss Taylor.