BE THE LIGHT!

At this time of year, on the 45th parallel, our tilting position on the earth results in long nights and short days. We have lovely traditions to address our ebbing sunshine; we light up trees, fill the fireplaces, and burn candles. All of it creates warmth to counter the cold and light to counter the darkness. It is often in such contrast that we find the greatest appreciation.

And while birds retreat, leaves fall, and our skies loom gray, illumination and amusement must come from within as well.

I am blessed to spend my days at The Leelanau School, where I get to witness embers of curiosity ignite into a blaze. Our students learn to be vulnerable and thus become courageous. The process of learning does not stop at the acquisition of knowledge but in sharing that new wisdom for the service and inspiration of others. Talent and knowledge have little value without the courage to put it on display and the generosity to give it to others. At Leelanau, the light of learning is witnessed in performance, debate, writing, invention, and relationships. Students let it shine, and our winters are filled with light.

As we mark the arrival of the winter solstice, and gratefully, the beginning of longer days, may we all embrace the opportunity to be a light for each other, the chance to share our gifts, and the grace to receive this joy from others.

Bright Holiday Greetings,

Rob Hansen

Head of School

rhansen@leelanau.org