New beginnings.  Roman philosopher Seneca once said, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”

The first day of school always holds a little anxiety for most students, parents and teachers.  Class lists and new shoes.  Fresh notebooks and sharpened pencils.  

As I dropped my kids off to Grades 5, 7 and 9 I wondered what stories their new chapters would hold.  Would they meet a teacher that they remember for years to come?  Would they find their tribe?  Would they learn something that changes the way they think?  Would they become passionate about a certain idea or subject?

I speculated the most about my oldest son who was starting high school. Becoming a tiny fish in a massive lake.  But he loved the freedom, found some friends to have lunch with and figured out where all his classrooms were located.

As an adult the new school year always reminds me about how important it is to continue to be curious even when we are outside the four classroom walls. To read about something that interests us.  To join a club or group that we are drawn to.  To ask questions.  To converse with others about what they do, enjoy, hope, plan and dream.  To ignite inspiration in our lives with what we eat, see, watch, learn and embrace.

Australian Army Officer William Throsby Bridges said, “Genuine beginnings begin within us, even when they are brought to our attention by external opportunities.”

Rather than mourning the beginnings that end, let’s celebrate the start of something new for our children, our families and ourselves.  And begin again.