It has been some time since I last authored a message for this space, and I am truly thrilled to return, especially now, as Thanksgiving approaches and the chance to gather, reflect, and express our gratitude comes into focus. For many of us, this season’s opportunities for connection help quiet the (at times deafening) noise of daily life: the polarized news cycles, the nagging worry that technology pulls us apart, or the accelerating pace of it all.
For me, this time of year has always been defined by the warmth of family and friends, tables of delicious food, loved ones returning from college or distant pursuits, and moments to reflect on all we have to be thankful for. This year, however, my gratitude centers on something both more immediate and more profound, something I haven’t felt in quite the same way since before the pandemic: a renewed sense of community.
This feeling grows out of countless small moments: a smile at morning drop-off, a quick check-in on how the year is going, the excitement of Spirit Day assemblies, or the third-grade plays. It shows up in the shared laughter between a teacher and student, teammates comforting one another after a tough loss under the lights, casual coffees before Parents’ Association events, and the joyful sounds of Early Birds in the Barn. The examples are endless, but together they point to something essential: the irreplaceable nature of human connection. These moments form a kind of quiet antidote to the disconnection that can creep into our lives beyond the Belmont Day community. I am grateful for each and every point of connection here at school, and this season reminds me not only of its importance but of its central place in our school’s mission and founding. In recent weeks, I have experienced this spirit of connection in a deeply personal way, and I wanted to send our community into the Thanksgiving break with that gratitude in mind.
Two weeks ago, my wife underwent a planned surgery that required several days in the hospital followed by a rigorous recovery at home. The gift this community gave me was the ability to be fully present with her, secure in the knowledge that the leadership team and faculty had everything at school well in hand. From Divya Muralidhara stepping in as acting head of school, to Jen James covering my English classes, to the many acts of generosity, large and small, from colleagues, students, the board of trustees, parents, and even parents of alumni, this community lifted us up at every turn with notes of kindness, delicious meals, and unwavering support.
Now, just two weeks later, my wife’s recovery has been remarkable, and it feels like a visible reflection of your care. I am back at school in time to offer my heartfelt thanks. The same energy I see when our community comes together for a Sharing Assembly found its way into my home, and I cannot imagine anything for which I could be more grateful this holiday season.
