As a child one of the most common ways I was taught to memorize was through song. There was a “times tables” song, a “books of the Bible”song, a “stranger danger” song, and a variety of other melodies that taught me how to navigate life. There was no event or piece of information that was too big or too small to have a catchy song attached to it. I’ll be forever indebted to music for teaching me how to “shake my sillies out,” and to Raffi for teaching me when I’m supposed to brush my teeth.  

A particular song that has stood out to me over the years is one that helped me remember the fruits of the Spirit. From an early age I learned that “you gotta have love, joy, peace, patience kiiinnnddeessss, for theeese are the fruuuiiitts of the…Spiiiirriiit.” The second line that followed, encouraged me to have goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control as well. 

While the song may have been simple, I have thought often about the fruits of the Spirit, and what that means for my life. In reference to Surrey Christian School, my deep hope is that SCS is a place where the fruits of the Spirit are in abundance. I think about a place where everybody is treated with kindness and respect, and where we all take care of each other. A place where the fruits of the Spirit are abundant is a place that is safe, welcoming, and enjoyable for everybody. I hope that students enjoy their experience with friends, teachers, their learning, and with the greater community. How we treat each other makes a difference. The fruits of the Spirit provide a framework for how we can be together and treat each other well. I love the notion that Surrey Christian School would be a place where the love and joy of Christ reign supreme. A place where peace and patience are overflowing. A place where kindness, goodness and gentleness are hallmarks of how we treat each other. A place where faithfulness and self control help guide how we make decisions.

I often forget that we have the unique opportunity to change the world for those around us. The way we interact with people matters. As we try to model our lives after Jesus, I hope that we live in such a way that the fruits of the Spirit are evident, and that collectively and individually we feel cared for. It is such a blessing being a part of this amazing community. Let’s all continue to work at taking care of each other!