Primary Thoughts

Neil Mufson, Head of School

 

Each year at about this time, I am reminded of a small, eye-catching collage-like creation that the beloved art teacher at one of my earlier schools made for me and my family. It became a touchstone that I gazed at frequently during the holiday season and that I carry in my mind throughout the year.

 

At the center of this beautifully decorated piece were these simple words: “We will find peace. We will hear the angels. We will see the sky sparkling with diamonds.” There’s a good measure of irony that I find these words so inspirational since they come from Anton Chekhov’s tragicomic play Uncle Vanya, a work ultimately about life’s illusions and misplacing one’s dedication. But seeing the beautiful way our friend illuminated this passage, I am able to separate the words from the play’s context and fall under their spell. To me, Chekhov speaks of faith, hope, peace, wonder, and light – the most important themes of year end holidays celebrating the coming of light.

 

Over the coming weeks, I hope you and your families are touched by the hope, peace, wonder, and light of this season. I send you all my best wishes for a wonderful holiday season and for a Happy New Year in which “We will find peace. We will hear the angels. We will see the sky sparkling with diamonds.”