28 November 2024

Dear Parents and Students,

As you know, Typhoon Toraji recently struck Hong Kong, resulting in the cancellation of our planned house activity day and camp. We understand how disappointing this was for our students, who were eager for off-campus activities. The school is currently in discussions with various organizations to reschedule some of these activities for the Life Wide Learning Day.

In times like these, we are reminded of the importance of not taking things for granted. The storm served as a poignant reminder to cherish all that surrounds us. We trust that our students have embraced this valuable lesson wholeheartedly.

Amidst the storm, I found solace in watching “The Last Dance”. This movie explores the ritual of “breaking hell’s gate”, a tradition in Hong Kong that honors our ancestors and is recognized as part of our intangible cultural heritage. The film not only captivated me but also prompted deep reflections on life.

For many, death is associated with separation and sorrow. However, as Christians, we view death not with fear, but with the hope of eternal life and the promise of reunion in heaven. This understanding allows us to see earthly separation as temporary, encouraging us to share our faith with others. As the Bible reminds us, “Those who sow in tears shall reap with shouts of joy” (Psalm 126:5-6).

The film encourages us to reflect on how we cope with the loss of loved ones and to embrace healing. Living in the shadows of grief can feel constraining, but as long as we have breath, we can find the courage to transcend our “hells” and examine our relationships, ultimately cherishing life more deeply.

“The Last Dance” highlights the power of love and the importance of care and understanding in overcoming difficulties. Let us be a source of strength for our daughters and create a nurturing environment for their growth. In an age where children face pressures from academics, social interactions, media, and self-identity, we can reinforce our connection with them through the following methods:

1. Active Communication: Engage in regular, meaningful conversations with your children to understand their feelings and thoughts. Share your own experiences and empathize with their perspectives.
2. Participate in Activities: Show your support by taking part in your children’s extracurricular activities or   
   interest groups, allowing them to feel your care and involvement in their lives.
3. Express Love: Frequently tell your children how much you love them, and demonstrate this affection through small gestures like hugs and compliments.
4. Create a Sense of Security: Foster an open and supportive family environment where children feel safe to express their emotions and ideas freely.

Let us face challenges together with our children. For this, Pooi To Parent Academy offers various self-study courses to help parents enhance their relationships with their children. You can scan the QR code below to explore these resources and grow alongside your children.

Best regards,
Constance Cheung
Principal