By Gretchen Larkin
Lately, it seems that every newspaper, television station, or social media platform one views is hyper-focused on the upcoming election. Articles, webinars, seminars, and blogs abound with advice for all of us, educators specifically, on how to tackle the divisiveness of the upcoming presidential election and the political polarization in our country. As we navigate the challenging landscape, it falls upon us—parents, educators, and community members—to model compassion, kindness, and grace, regardless of our political preferences.
Our children are watching us closely as they absorb the world around them. They are inundated with information overload— through television, news, social media, and especially, their smartphones. It can feel overwhelming. Sadly, many of these messages foster division rather than a path to fostering understanding. In this noisy environment, it is essential for us to model the values we wish to see in our children. They are looking to us for guidance. How we respond to the challenges of our times will shape their understanding of the world. Children are hardwired to connect spiritually, socially, and emotionally; they long for authentic conversations and relationships that affirm their worth.
Last year, I returned to Greenwich after 25 years in Boston to join the Eagle Hill School community. I took this role with a deep sense of responsibility. Growing up in Greenwich instilled in me the values of kindness, compassion, and the very essence of connection. These ideals are not just lofty concepts; they are the very fabric of a nurturing environment that helps our children flourish. David Brooks, in his insightful book How to Know a Person, beautifully highlights the importance of treating others with kindness and the necessity for children to feel seen and understood. In a world that sometimes prioritizes quick interactions over deep and meaningful connections, our children are exposed to simplified narratives about people and situations. Brooks emphasizes the importance of character. He reinforces what we already know in our hearts; we need to work harder to instill in our children virtues such as honesty, courage, and humility. This can feel daunting in such a polarizing time. However, the goal is a noble one because these traits not only benefit the individual child, but they are necessary ingredients for building a strong and healthy community.
I often reflect on a pivotal moment in my life where I witnessed first hand the modeling of true compassion, courage, and the gift of grace. In the summer of 1990, I was working in Vermont. I have fond memories from that carefree time in my life, yet none are as clear and significant as one particular day – June 19. My friends and I had the day off from our internship so we decided to drive north and spend the day exploring the city of Montreal. Five of us piled into my well-loved, aging Volkswagen. When we arrived, we walked towards Old Montreal and quickly found ourselves swept into a large crowd which led us towards a roar of chanting and upbeat live music. The crowd’s energy became louder and more powerful by the second, and we landed in the Champs-de-Mars among a mass of people numbering in the thousands. We soon realized this was neither a simple city festival, nor a summertime celebration.
I could never have imagined ever being in the presence of such greatness, but there before my eyes was Nelson Mandela. Four months after his release from prison, Mandela stopped in Montreal for just a few hours. He thanked the Canadian people for their unending support to end apartheid, an incredibly polarizing time in South African history. It was an awe-inspiring experience to bear witness to an individual who radiated grace and dignity after all he had endured; to be in the presence of someone who faced immeasurable oppression and adversity, yet rose triumphant without spite or anger. His experience did not fill him with resentment, but rather hope, kindness, and love.
The life lessons I learned that day were infinite. Each time I recall this profound moment, it carries with it a different meaning. Today, as I speak to a community I love deeply, Mandela’s ability to rise above serves as a beautiful reminder that kindness and compassion can transform not just individuals, but entire communities. As we approach this election season, let us all commit to exemplify kindness for our children. Let us show them that even in divisive times, we can choose empathy over conflict and respect over disdain. We have the power to cultivate a community where kindness is the norm.
The journey ahead may be challenging, but together, we can do this. We can support a culture that prioritizes love and understanding. Our children are counting on us to be our best selves and with our guidance, they can emerge from these polarizing times as compassionate leaders ready to shape a brighter future.
Gretchen Larkin assumed the role of Head of School in July 2023, bringing 30 years of K-12 educational leadership to Eagle Hill School. She was honored by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education(CASE) with the Division I Chief Executive Leadership Award. Gretchen is a native of Greenwich, Connecticut and is a proud alumna of Greenwich Academy.
