Dr. Chen, Head of School
An ancient Chinese sage once said, “a leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves. In a similar spirit, Jesus said, “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant…the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Greatness, in both traditions, bends downward into service.
Already I’ve been encouraged and inspired by the many ways our students are exhibiting this kind of servant leadership.
I see Misha and Noah gathering up the quiet courage to share deep spiritual insights during high school assembly. I see Ruthie, Izzy, and Alejandro working tirelessly behind the scenes at bake sales so that the money raised can serve the entire student body. I see a group of earnest students volunteering as PacBay Ambassadors, showing up at admissions events to show their love for the school. I see team captains caring for and encouraging their teammates as they face tough competitors on the volleyball court. I see peer tutors giving their time so their classmates do not have to struggle alone.
Already, our students are stepping forward in quiet and authentic ways to serve and make a difference in our community and beyond. Some are asking how they can help the victims of the devastating floods in Nepal that happened just over a week ago.
These are the quiet ways that our students and community are leaning into the way of Jesus. It is quiet, helpful, and hopeful.
In a time when so much feels artificial, our students are choosing what is real. In a time marked by strife, they are choosing love. In a culture that often rewards self-promotion, they are choosing humility and service. I can’t wait to see what will transpire in the lives of our students this year.
Welcome back, PacBay!
