Transitions, they say, can be demanding, confronting and painful. Here is one that arises once in our lives — retirement. It was only during the last school break that it hit me that there isn’t a class of children waiting for me after this class’s journey. Then once we returned to School, I realised what a short time we, the children and I, had to travel together until the end of term. That’s now!

Each day has been valuable, every moment significant and every handshake at the beginning and end of the day, so precious. Meeting eyes, or not, gauging how each young person is feeling as the day emerges, acknowledging what we face together as the day unfolds.

In retrospect, over the journey we’ve shared, the comings and goings of families, for all the reasons life pulls us together and apart, this has been a remarkable voyage. One of joy, sorrow, wonderful growth, support and learning. Solid friendships have been forged among this group of young people, deep connections and respect for one another that will endure time and space so that, as they grow, they will be able to reconnect with joy and open hearts. I’m so proud of every person in the class, their tenacity and honesty and courage to immerse and engage in life and learning – and with each other. I’ll be thinking of how everyone travels into their high school years and following the choices each child makes beyond their time at Shearwater, wishing them well and watching for their successes.

Shearwater has welcomed me into the fold – teachers, assistants, administrators, maintenance people and gardeners, all warm-hearted and wise, working together for the children and families that together form our community. I’ll remember this warmth and the humanity that exists between one and other. Being here has been a blessing for which I’m very grateful.

The honour of chairing the College, the camaraderie and shared commitment to deepen our anthroposophical understanding will always be held respectfully for all who shared this journey. And the opportunity to hold the Friday morning parent study group meeting, now good friends, as the result of working together to deepen our connection with Steiner’s impulse, the force behind our education here at Shearwater.

Now the time has arrived to say farewell, moving away from this area to cooler climes. The ones who wait include those I’ve taught before, now parents, uni students and in the work force, making pathways into the future, to create a new world because they can.

Warm thanks to everyone, all the children, their families, all staff and of course my husband, for supporting me through this journey at Shearwater. Just a clue, watch out for stories that are started and not completed, you may be in there somewhere.

Love and blessings,

Linda Mayer
Class 7 Teacher