From the Desk of Charlie Spencer: A Note & Resources
Dear Friends,
As I watch the Israel-Hamas War unfold in real time, the lens flickers; fall colors, this morning's "Cozy All School," a friend preparing for her wedding tomorrow, are also in sight. I checked on my mother this morning. She lives "under the Empire State Building" at 30th and 5th. She's on her way to a classical music concert. My son who is in college is embedded in vigils and protests. Friends with loved ones in Israel carry their shoulders up by their ears, their faces tight with worry. The unspeakable violence of war, against civilians, is a world away, brought closer by lightning fast technology, not to mention our collective understanding of what war means, and our sense of empathy for those we see on the TV and hear on the radio. We are inextricably connected.
The art of compartmentalization we adults are doing here is necessary-- and it’s tinged with privilege. I cannot believe how gorgeous this day is, how your amazing children can be… so, SO joyful and carefree, while Israel and Palestine explode and the world takes sides. This is the imbalanced nature of things.
So, with a sense of utter uselessness, I have been digging for something, anything to humbly offer you; sifting for resources at a time when it feels pretty futile to try. I'm hoping that this handful I've landed on offer us a way to feel, as Piercy would say, "Of Use," some sources for reflection, perspectives that might help us and our children keep our eyes on what is possible, and some ways to keep hope alive. You will notice that all of the links below demonstrate ways we can help and spread compassion. As Fred Rogers famously said (and this will forever be my personal mantra), “Look for the helpers.”
As always we are here for our students and families, and our community near and far. If you have resources to share or thoughts about how we might stand together in this difficult time, we’d love to hear from you.
Peace to all,
Charlie Spencer, Head of School