Invicta Vlogs
My favourite Journey
One of the best treats for an Invicta teacher is to have the opportunity to be in the audience of our Debate and Public Speaking competitions. I am always in a trance like state when I am sitting in our Hall in awe of the most robust and well-articulated arguments that our students put forward for their debates. Invicta students never cease to amaze us with their knowledge, skills, dedication and best of all, their creativity.
The highlight of the year so far for me, however, was the latest Invicta Speak competition in which our students’ speeches were extremely well crafted and presented. Some reduced us to tears with their words. Our judges had an extremely hard time deciding a winner on the night.
I was most touched by Zahra’s one minute speech about meaningful relationships. Her observation and reflection on the people around her and their interaction was gently yet powerfully described, touching the heart string of the whole audience.
This treat is too special for me to keep to myself, so I have asked Zahra to share this short write up with our school community. I do hope you enjoy Zahra’s wisdom.
My Favourite Journey
My last visit to Pakistan opened my eyes to the harsh realities of a chapter of life I had never been exposed to, ageing. My grandfather, non-verbal for the first time in his life, had adopted a new form of communication. He spoke volumes through his simple embraces and warm gaze. In ambiguous situations where we feel most uncomfortable, our brains seek out new connections, creating new pathways and innovative perspectives.
Medically speaking he would not have been able to recognise faces, yet he still likened me to his ethereal late wife. Despite his presence right next to mine, I felt a loss for the first time in my life.
I had to witness my grandfather going from the most respected member of his community, expressing the ability to transform every conversation into an erudite discussion, to a person unable to dress himself in a matter of two years. I ask myself, ‘How do we go from our peaks of independence to losing dignity and posing the risk of becoming burdens so rapidly?’
My journey back home taught me the importance of seeking meaningful connections in life. The significance of seeking out those individuals that will encourage and appreciate us at our peaks in life, but also care for us when we are at our most vulnerable.
