As this is the last Newsmonth of the year I thought it fitting to write something light-hearted and joyful.
Considering the negotiations for our new enterprise agreement are in their early stages and there isn’t much to report so far, I thought a festive spin might be fun.
Now, lately we have been hearing a bit about how AI can assist with reducing our workloads so, full disclosure and in this spirit, I decided to enlist the help of ChatGPT in writing an acrostic poem using the word ADVENT (and being a science and maths teacher, creativity with words does not always come easy).
Some of you may think this simplistic or the idea even a bit tacky but I think that we can all enjoy a touch of frivolity after another year of unrelenting pressures and stresses.
So here is ‘my’ poem to help you reflect on the break that awaits you to hopefully give you a reprieve from the everyday grind. I think the sentiment is accurate and gives us food for thought on how we can approach the time we have over Christmas and through January. A touch clichéd, possibly, but I like the overall message nonetheless.
Always take time to rest and recharge,
Deep breaths and quiet moments – don’t overcharge.
Venture outdoors, let nature renew,
Enjoy simple joys, in all that you do.
Nurture your spirit, let worries fade,
Then return refreshed, with a heart unafraid.
At a time of year when we are bombarded with the messages of hope, peace, joy and love, let us take a moment to remember that this time of year can be quite difficult for some of us. Along with whatever end-of-year expectations are thrust upon us from our workplaces, many of us have additional worries and sadness. Be kind to yourself and know that you don’t have to be happy and cheerful all the time.
To finish, I want to thank all of the members in Catholic systemic schools and workplaces for your continued commitment to the union this year and for your tireless efforts to constantly help each other and your students. I truly wish that continuing negotiations next year bring us the much-needed relief in our workloads.