Monday, 5 October 2026
Good morning, everyone. We are the student representatives of 6J. As we sing in our school song, our school is a ‘oh my dear school, home for my soul, light for my mind, warmth for my heart’. Over our six years here, we learn, explore, and grow. Yet, this journey of growth is rarely smooth—we inevitably face failure, discouragement, and pressure that lead us to doubt ourselves. Take a moment to reflect on these challenges and ask yourself: how did you overcome them to stand strong today?
You might immediately think of your friends and peers who have walked beside you. From quiet words of encouragement to organizing major events together, our classmates are our greatest companions. Think back to studying past papers together before exams, sharing snacks on picnic day, or hearing them cheer your name loudly from the track on sports days. Every shared experience — both the good and the bad — reminds us that we never walk alone. While we may have ended up in the same class by coincidence, the bonds we build transform us into a community — a true home for our souls.
We must also express our gratitude to our teachers, who stand before us every day with patience and dedication. Even when they are tired, they bring energy into the classroom to prepare us for the future. Their impact extends far beyond exam syllabuses; they cultivate the values that shape us into better individuals, igniting the light for our minds.
At the same time, we should appreciate the peaceful environment we enjoy. The freedom to learn, speak, and pursue our dreams should never be taken for granted. Thanks to the strong foundation of our National Security, which covers all aspects of life including homeland security, resource security, cybersecurity and more, we are granted a safe home, many resources, and convenient access to information. Regardless of our identities, we all have a chance to prosper. We owe our stable environment and access to education to the dedication of our country and the contributions of generations before us.
Finally, let us remember to thank ourselves. Without your own courage to keep showing up and the resilience to bounce back, you would not be here to appreciate these blessings. As 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18 reminds us, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances.” Gratitude is not about ignoring difficulties; it is about finding hope and light even in challenging times. By keeping a thankful heart, we fill our lives with warmth and purpose.
Shungtakians, let us learn to discover the extraordinary within our daily lives by appreciating everything around us. Please join us as we bow our heads for today’s morning prayer.
6J