I figure that if you are not a little bit worried about the quality of the public discourse as it relates to many of the challenges that loom in front of our country, you haven't been paying attention. As a nation, or even as a nation of diverse communities, we struggle to have a civil discussion on tough issues (health care comes to mind--let alone end-of-life scenarios), even (especially?) when the option of doing nothing seems utterly unsustainable.
In the midst of this logjam, I take particular note of how astonishingly vital the role education plays in our society's work to create a place where we are able to pass on to our children a sense of hope, promise and potential. Quaker education, in particular, is in the cross hairs of what we can and should be cherishing. I realize that this is a little bit like telling Noah about the rain because I understand the sacrifice that Sandy Spring Friends School families make in order for their children to come here. There are many reasons why I celebrate the choice you are making and why I think you are so right to have made it.
Historically, Quakers have placed a huge premium on education. This understanding follows from the view that there is that of God within each person and, therefore, each person is in a position to seek, experience and share an understanding of our common humanity. It is consistent with Quaker values that the acquisition of knowledge and the cultivation of a love of learning supports the simple quest for truth. Quakers also believe that knowledge and learning, both widespread and deep, are key ingredients to the achievement of peace and social justice. It strikes me that there is another part of our Quaker practice - listening - that has a pronounced relevance when times are difficult and people are angry or fearful. Listening is a robust part of our Quaker school curriculum. We are listening when we sit together in silence during Meeting for Worship. We gather ourselves to listen to the soft, still voice within and, during Meeting, often, we are provided opportunities to listen to others as they put words to their journey, to their deepest feelings. But listening is not confined to two periods a week in the Meeting House. Listening to each other is the way that we demonstrate respect, tolerance and acceptance. Listening bestows dignity. And, of course, listening leads to understanding, to the airing of honest differences and to the possibility of genuine agreement. Listening is the hallmark of independent minds working together. Listening is what leaders do.