28 March 2019

Dear Parents and Students,

Recently, the MTR experienced a serious accident involving a collision between two trains. The MTR promptly invited system experts to find the cause, and also investigated whether it involved negligence or a lack of supervision. However, it was also urgent to move the train away and resume service. The MTR deployed nearly 100 employees, who together with the firemen spent two consecutive days repairing it. Due to the lack of large-scale machines, it was incredibly difficult to move the trains. MTR staff and firefighters, without sleep, moved the trains using their physical strength, and hard work. Their selfless efforts to reduce the impact on people’s daily lives show that they really are the heroes behind the scene.

A crisis is like a storm, with the noise of the thunder being panic and chaos. However, this thunder is something that can be prevented. Everyone may face a crisis in their lives that they have never experienced before, but how the crisis is dealt with can make a big difference. I can remember encountering a number of crises as a teacher. As well as trying my best to help solve the problems, I kept praying to God. I believe that in each crisis, I can navigate the difficulties in God's grace because the Bible says: "You must be strong and courageous. Don't be afraid; don't be alarmed, because wherever you go, the Lord your God will be with you." Joshua 1:9. I always ask myself, what can I contribute to others in order to solve these crises together with my teammates?

I am very grateful for the trust placed in me by others. On a number of occasions, during times of crisis, I have been appointed to take up key roles in managing situations of emergency. To be frank, the challenges were tough, the responsibilities were numerous, and the pressure was huge. I thank God that I was able to take on the tasks positively. These really were valuable crisis management and contingency experiences for me to learn and grow. These challenges brought precious nutrients to my life, and provided beautiful and memorable moments for team spirit to shine. They were also opportunities for me to give thanks to God and my beloved students. However, it should be stated that these moments were far from easy and required a large amount of strength and perseverance. The heavy workload left me exhausted and feeling the heavy burden of pressure. It is hard to describe both the physical and mental fatigue that can be experienced when in a time of crisis, as the MTR staff and firefighters were. But I have the privilege of having the power of prayer from God with His grace and power, which made me strong and brave. Thank God, the storm eventually stopped, and as calm was restored, so was everything else. Looking back now, those experiences have made me stronger when facing the challenges of every day life. I am amazed at our almighty God's foresight and preparation!

In Hong Kong, the pressure of life is indeed not light. The challenges faced by students are no less than those of adults. Parents also have the pressure of work and family. But we need to know how to cope with pressure and how to overcome challenges in life. We should not rely on our own wisdom, and bear many unnecessary pressures, pain and fear. Instead, we should have a positive attitude to face challenges, as we emphasized in this year's school theme: "Live positive life to the fullest". I am convinced that turning difficulties into opportunities is a subject of lifelong learning, but let God guide you through every thought and step and make him your peace. As the Bible says: "God gives an unexpected peace, and will keep your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7

Psalm 46:1-3: "God is our refuge, our strength, our help in times of trouble. Therefore, although the earth changes, the mountain shakes into the sea, and the water in it is tumbling. Although the mountains are trembled by the sea, we are not afraid.” May God be the rock where you can hide, the refuge in the storm, and God will lead you to the path of grace.

 

Best regards,
Constance Cheung
Principal



“Him we proclaim, warning everyone and teaching everyone with all wisdom, that we may present everyone mature in Christ.”
(Colossians 1:28)