The Patriot Report – Nov 27

“Little things make big things happen.” – John Wooden

The above quote from the legendary coach John Wooden is one of my all time favorites and I would not be surprised to learn that I have used it in a previous newsletter. But is that not the case with quotes and moments of our lives that impact us? Do we not often find ourselves circulating back to key insights and thoughts? While Wooden was referring to the myriad of small and little things in a basketball game, adding up to a successful victory or a National Championship, we can certainly apply his quote to the situation we find ourselves in now. 

In trying to combat COVID-19 and keeping ourselves and our children safe, we need to apply Wooden’s thinking. For example, washing our hands thoroughly for 20 seconds is a small thing. The act of washing our hands is a small act but the outcome of washing our hands throughout the day and especially after sneezing, coughing, going to the washroom, or before eating is a critical defense against the spread of germs. Wearing a mask is a small act as well. It is a cloth covering with ear loops. Sure it may be uncomfortable at times, especially for those of us who wear glasses. But really, when you pause and think about it, with few exceptions, it is a small thing. Keeping our distance from others in line ups – another small act. Again, all we are asked to do is to give a little bit more space between us and the person in front of us. These little things, washing hands, wearing a mask, and keeping our distance, can add up to a more robust defense against COVID-19. 

My reflection today is not to say that all of this is easy. A little thing done well does not mean it is easy. I know this as a basketball coach. We train players on how to properly close out on defense (the player sprints to their opponent on the flight of the ball while stutter stepping with their hands in position and their body cutting off any access to the hoop). The small difference of having your feet in the correct position is the difference between stopping the offensive player and seeing the ball go in your own hoop. And even after practicing it, players forget. None of what we are being asked to do with respect to Covid-19 is easy. 

But if the outcome we desire is to flatten this Covid-19 curve, then we must focus on getting the small things right. We must see that our small actions, if done collectively, will translate into victory.

As per the PHO guidelines that were announced last week, all in-person faith services are suspended until December 7th, 2020. Sunday 11am Mass will continue to be live-streamed on the Parish FaceBook page @stjudesvan. Please stay tuned for future announcements.

Thank-you for your continued support. Please keep safe and healthy.

The Gr. 7 Class is hopeful that you will be able to support their fundraiser. All proceeds from the reusable St. Jude Patriots Mask sales will go to support a Covid19 Safe Gr. 7 Farewell in 2021. Click the follow link to order: Gr 7 Mask Fundraiser

Kindergarten celebrating Super Hero Care Day on Friday

Practicing our evacuation procedure after the Earthquake drill. 

Students in Gr. 2 participate in a Tennis workshop. The PSG has sponsored the Tennis Program from Kindergarten to Gr. 7. We are grateful to the PSG for their support! 

This is a reminder that parents need to take the time to do the Daily Check every day. It is important that we remain committed to taking our COVID19 procedures seriously. Click here to access the form.