A Letter to My Third Form Self

To Nikau

E tama, e tama, e tupu ana e pihi ana,

Ō pakiaka he mea tupu, he mea whanake ki te rangi mai te whenua,

Tō tinana he hā ki ngā hau e kore e taea te whakaueue,

He ruruhau, he marumaru koe mo tō whānau, tō Hapū, tō iwi...

If I had the opportunity to speak to my Third Form self, I probably wouldn't step any further than mentioning a few warm words of advice and encouragement. For most, if not all young people, entering high school can be a difficult time. Especially going to a place like Grammar you can be sure to feel some form of intimidation towards the place. After looking back at my own knowledge and experience, now writing as an Old Boy of the school, I'd probably say to him these things:

1.) Enjoy, young grasshopper - Your time at Grammar is very short, so grasp on to every opportunity that presents itself. But more importantly, enjoy the little moments. For it is all these little moments that will eventually accumulate to make up your five year term with the finest group of mates at the finest school in this country. Enjoy the experience. Smile- it's all good.

2.) Step outside your comfort zone - Sure you might enjoy your rugby or kapa haka, and that's absolutely awesome! However I encourage you to, whilst strengthening your own talents, to branch off and try something a little different to what you're used to. Go meet a new bunch of people. Grammar offers the widest range of extra-curricular activities out of any other school I've seen throughout my time, so go off and look around. You might just surprise yourself.

3.) Relax - Let's face it. Grammar can seem like some complex labyrinth to any newcomer; with its huge and wide campus, and even some teachers who might like to scare you off by acting strict (Do not fall for this), it can certainly be intimidating. Relax. It's not at all as bad as it seems. Remember to take care of yourself in the midst of it all

4.) Work your butt off - It's not going to be easy. In your first term you will immediately be struck by the competitiveness that is Grammar across all levels in academia, sports, and extra curricular activities. Competition is high so be prepared to absolutely work your butt off. Remember that what you put in is what you will get in return, so stand your ground.

And finally, 5.) Never forget who you are - OK so this might sound like something straight out of The Lion King, but I think this had massive relevance and significance to my life, especially when coming to a new school which I found had been quite foreign to what I was used to. Growing up having been taught the knowledge of my own language and culture has since kept me firmly grounded and sustained in my values and belief system. And for this I am eternally grateful. Young man, do not lose sight of this. This a gift from above that should never be wasted. Share your gift to the world and remember to always humble yourself before others. Be you.

I hope these words speak volumes to some of you, just some food for thought. A safe and blessed Happy New Year to all who have made an effort to keep up with our blog- you are truly appreciated by us all.

Much love,

Your 2017-2018 India Immersion crew.