The @chs_dmurray: Week in Reflection

Happy Holidays

Looking back at the thousands of words that have been recorded this semester in this weekly blog- it is easy to see the volume of greatness that has walked the halls, fields, and arenas this semester. Coming into this school year, we had so many opportunities for growth. With new faces, and new opportunities, Chardon's rich tradition was able to transcend without interruption.

Robert Frost has played a significant role in authoring the numerous decisions that I have made in my life. His writings, along with other writers- Fictional, Philosophical, and Sacred have inspired me to find my purpose. As we close a new year, consider the hills and valleys that you have faced along with your decisions along the way.

The Road Not Taken

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood,
And sorry I could not travel both
And be one traveler, long I stood
And looked down one as far as I could
To where it bent in the undergrowth; 

Then took the other, as just as fair,
And having perhaps the better claim
Because it was grassy and wanted wear,
Though as for that the passing there
Had worn them really about the same,

And both that morning equally lay
In leaves no step had trodden black.
Oh, I kept the first for another day! 
Yet knowing how way leads on to way
I doubted if I should ever come back.

I shall be telling this with a sigh
Somewhere ages and ages hence:
Two roads diverged in a wood, and I,
I took the one less traveled by,
And that has made all the difference

As I have shared with every student, staff, and parent that I have talked to over the years---we all have a story. It is through this story that we find ourselves and live with a defined purpose. Finding our call in life has no timeline or playbook.  The more we open our eyes to the beauty in us, around us, and beyond us- the more we define who we are.

Parents:

Cherish these moments that you have with your children. The days have come and passed so quickly as you have watched your children grow. These four years of high school are pivotal in the maturation of your children. Often, you may wonder, do they hear me? Do they know that I care? The answer is complicated and simple...yes. Your children hear you, need you, and love you...even when they make decisions that ask the question if they ever have heard a word that you have shared. Remember, you were in their shoes. The lines of communication are always open- and when you dial them with your love--they will hear.

Students:

The last four months have gone by so quickly. It doesn't matter what grade level that you are in---you have faced a lot of choices. What I love about high school is the diversity of experiences that you face through your four years. Whether you are a freshman walking the halls for the first time, or you just were accepted into college--these four years draw into deep memories. Cherish today, for tomorrow is never granted. Live for the simple moments in life. Unplug from data and plug into real communication with your friends and family. A text will always be there waiting; never bypass a simple embrace, hello, or opportunity to give of yourself.

Staff:

One of the most overlook careers in the world is the one that creates careers. Being a teacher is a sacrifice, a gift, and often a thankless job. We appreciate the gifts that our teachers provide each day at Chardon High School.  We have tremendous educators that not only live their content--they teach about living. Thank you for all that you do to train the future leaders--today.

As we transition into a new year, my wish for you is that of continued, hope, joy, and happiness. Enjoy this time with family and friends. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays and a have joyous New Year!
​Douglas Murray, Principal