As I was leaving the administration building headed for the high school, I heard a familiar fall sound - the honking of a flock of geese flying in their customary V-shaped formation overhead.  I rushed to catch a glimpse.  The students playing four-square in the outdoor common area did not allow the geese to impact their game, but I saw great similarities between the players and the geese.  

Geese form their V because the shape helps them aerodynamically.  In fact, according to Len Wilson, a goose flying in formation is able to fly 70% further with the same energy than if he were flying alone.  The leader constantly rotates, falling behind the others as his energy is expended, because those in the back experience the least resistance.  This gives all of the geese a chance to take on the responsibility of leadership. That characteristic honking sound is  actually their way of communicating with one another, trying to  encourage one another and keep everyone on track.

I watched the four-square players.  Mr. West was the obvious leader of the group, but not so in the playing of the game.  It was obvious that there was a constant rotation, with various students having the opportunity to be in the lead square.  I heard lots of encouragement going on, and realized that these students were learning a valuable life lesson - the ability to function as part of a group.  

As a school, we are much better off when we can be on campus functioning as normally as possible.  While 2020 has been full of obstacles, we are blessed to have had most of our students on campus for most of the days this year, for we truly are better together.  We are thankful for the leadership of so many who have taken on the additional responsibilities in order to keep everyone safe.  And it has been so wonderful to see students respond with such cooperation when it comes to wearing masks, sanitizing desks, and following the necessary precautions to keep everyone safe.

In an age when it seems that many of our leaders in the world are not necessarily great role models, I am grateful to be part of a school that has sent so many great role models out into our world.  It’s a great reflection of the way we are carrying out our mission: “equipping hearts and minds of students to impact the world for Jesus Christ.”

Minds:
Who are the role models that you follow?  What characteristics do you strive to emulate?  If you are a parent, what are you modeling that you are hoping your children follow?  Are there any things you would change if you knew that others might follow your example?

Hearts:
Pray for those in positions of leadership, as well as the leaders we are training each and every day on our campus. Thank Him for the godly role models He places in our classrooms to work with our students.   Pray that God will show you ways that you can serve as that leader or role model for others who need a godly example.