Dear Parents
We congratulate Khwezi and Sally Mqomboti on the birth of their son, Siphiwe Robert. He was born very prematurely last term but is now at home with his parents.
On Nelson Mandela Day two weeks ago we launched a special focus on RESPECT for the next six months, one of the central values of the Mitre. At this morning’s assembly, I relayed an account included in Martin Kalungu-Banda’s book, “Leading like Mandela”. One of the colleagues in the company constructing a primary school in the Eastern Cape at the behest of Madiba was invited to a breakfast meeting with the then President for a progress update.
“On the day Peter asked one of the company drivers, Dumi, to take him to Mr Mandela’s home. To Peter’s amazement, his host was waiting for him in the car park. “I felt both extremely elated and humbled that Mr Mandela was waiting outside for me. He warmly greeted the driver and me. He then gestured that we enter the house. However, in the traditional way of corporate behaviour and protocol, the driver retreated quietly and remained in the car. Mr Mandela invited me to the breakfast table. Just before we started eating, my host seemed to miss something. He asked, “Peter, I thought there were two of you?” I responded, “No, sir. I came alone.” “What about the other gentleman?” he insisted, and I replied, “No, sir. That one is just a driver. He will wait in the car.” At that point Mr Mandela stood up and went out to where the driver was. He introduced himself to the driver and asked him to join us for breakfast. Mr Mandela then walked to the kitchen and said, “Dumi is joining us for breakfast. Can we have another plate, please?”
An example of the exemplary respect Nelson Mandela was known for, and the respect he asked for in others; enemies, prison wardens, politicians ….. everyone.
The following quote is one we want the boys to remember. First of all, noticing any and everyone, and caring for each and every human being, the simple question always being, “Is this action based on respect?”
“For to be free is not merely to cast off one’s chains,
but to live in a way that respects and enhances the freedom of others.”
Please find ways to bring the theme of respect into your home, both as we seek to inspire our boys, but also in those moments when we have to unpack a difficult situation.
KLIKD
We have had a good response to the launch of the Klikd programme, so thank you for the very positive feedback. Please expect further information in this regard shortly.
Next week Friday’s assembly will be dedicated to Women’s Day.
Enjoy the long weekend. May this Women’s Day bring increased awareness of and commitment to a society where gender-based-violence can truly abate, through education, introspection and significant action.
Kind regards
GREG BROWN
HEADMASTER |
