As we trudge through the wintery months, snow keeps piling up–and so do our assignments. Burnout feels inevitable this time of year, but spring is right around the corner. Before we know it, the snow will melt and the cherry blossoms will bloom again, ushering in a season of rebirth and renewal, not only for nature, but for ourselves.
Like the fresh changes that come in the spring, this issue of the Hourglass focuses on changes within the Baldwin community. From exploring the new Film Studies English elective to learning about the recently established Student Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion collaborative event, there is plenty to discover within our school. This issue also examines the controversial changes in our community, including the discontinuation of the jazz band. As we enter the “home stretch” of the school year, engaging with your community and advocating for what you believe in can make this time easier–and more enjoyable.
While this issue predominantly covers changes within our school community, the changes that the spring season brings are also about personal growth. During this time, remember that not every change has to be a major accomplishment–it can mean achieving small goals that you set for yourself, regardless of what’s visible to others. Perhaps you set a new personal record in your sport, mastered a new study strategy, or even made a new friend–these are things that may not seem remarkable on the forefront, but are just as worthy of celebration because they mean something to you.
Our theme of renewal also reminds us to “renew” our perspectives. It’s important to look at familiar things through a new perspective. This issue looks at topics that have been longstanding in the Baldwin community by shining a new light on them. We explore our well-known squash team through the new lens of its unusually young roster. We spotlight our beloved sports coaches and maintenance staff by showing previously unseen aspects of their lives. In doing so, this issue encourages you to view what you already know with curiosity and wonder.
So, whether it’s accomplishing a small goal or gaining a new perspective on something you’re already familiar with, always remember to have a growth mindset, because each act of resilience, re-evaluation, and dedication contributes meaningfully to your character. As we enter spring in the upcoming months, let the seasonal transition be a reminder to appreciate the ordinary moments in life, because things that are “blooming” in silence matter just as much as those that bloom in plain sight.
-Macy and Kate
