Dear Eastside Catholic Community Members,

I’ve never run a marathon (I am allergic to exercise), but I have always been fascinated by those who do, especially worldclass runners whose times can be under three hours! Research shows the hardest part of a marathon is between the 18th and 23rd mile—when runners are physically and mentally exhausted.

In this stage, a runner will struggle the most to keep going forward—resulting in a mental struggle equal to or more intense than the physical. In a marathon, runners are encouraged to shift their focus from external to internal to overcome this challenging point. Doing this helps to combat the mental effects of hitting the proverbial wall.

In the final quarter of the school year, like marathoners, a shift in focus can help us get through these overwhelming or challenging moments. We are in the academic equivalent of that hardest mile; we live in the duality of the present and preparing for the next academic year. The span between Easter Break and the end of the school year can seem overwhelming for students, faculty and families. We are gearing up for finals, preparing for the spring musical, participating in spring sports, contemplating our schedules and classes for next year (the ones we will take and the ones we will teach) or even deciding where to attend college or university. And more daylight often means we try to cram in more and more each day.

I have found reflection and expressing gratitude as ways to shift focus and manage the day to day challenges. Gratitude is a way of looking at the world and the good things God has blessed us with—a feeling of appreciation, regardless of whether our current circumstances are ideal. A daily prayer of thanksgiving, a focus on mindfulness or a moment of reflection can all help shift our focus.

Crossing the finish line is its own reward, and as the school year concludes, I hope we can all take some time to reflect and express gratitude for the gifts and blessings we have been given, big and small.

–Gil Picciotto President

Grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa

Education degree from the University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University)

EC teacher for 6 years

Loves to read during breaks and vacations

Hobbies: Travel, cooking and writing