When Hania, the Editor of HLT asked me to write a passage for the upcoming issue, I felt utterly humbled and honoured.

Only the best write for such a magnificent publication.

My original message, though was very different to what I am about to share with you, for rather obvious reasons.

However, I would like to start with offering my sincere thanks to each and every one of you for remembering Jim, the Principal of Pilgrims and a huge inspiration to me, my life partner and a partner in crime, work-wise.

We all have lost someone significant, someone who made a tremendous impression on our lives and in spite of the heartbreaking loss their bright spirit is still weaving unknowingly through fabrics of our daily routines, thoughts and laughs, memories and aspirations. Because they have made their mark.

And this is what I would like you to focus on, especially now, when the world became a strange place full of uncertainty and worry and a scary future. This is the time that our humanity will be tested, and some say the more benevolent and kind nature will come out.

Social distancing is never ideal, even for the most socially awkward amongst us, and it also brings a possibility, a perfect opportunity to use this motionless time effectively.

It is a perfect setting to quietly revalue what is it that is the most important to us and reflect on where we have ended up so far and how did we get there.

The importance of community has never been tested to such a degree before and although major activities ceased to exist worldwide the burning fire of our ambition and passion never went out.

This period of stillness will push us to discover new ways and perhaps more exciting ways to help us reach the potential that we never had the courage to test. Now, we have no choice but press forward relentlessly, because our minds never stopped pioneering.

I am so very proud to be part of the Pilgrims family, although quietly placed in the background, still shifting this machinery into the future. The ability to offer opportunities and space to our teachers to discover courage within themselves to deal with change and uncertainty, is what I find most fulfilling.

Wherever you are in the world, thank you for your dedication to the profession and to the idea of strong community, family, inspiration, motivation and innovation.

Keep shining!
Lizzie Wojtkowska-Wright
Finance and Operations Manager
Pilgrims