Week 9 Term 3 - Facing Goliath

GOLIATH

a very large and powerful person or organization 

The story of David and Goliath is your classic example of the underdog winning. For me it is more than just about the underdog and winning. In this story we learn about the battle between the Philistines and the Israelite armies. For 40 days a Philistine giant, Goliath mocked, tormented and threatened the Israelite army. They were terrified of him and saw his physical appearance as a threat to their strength as a cohort. A young boy named David was sent to assist the Israelite army in battle and soon found out about Goliath. Unsettled about the treatment towards the Israelite, David volunteered to fight Goliath. Goliath retaliated with more threats and mocks. He used his large physique and nature to project fear over his counterparts. This was his way of gaining leverage over his opponents, create fear by amplifying his stature and power as a weapon. This did not waver David who confidently said to Goliath "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty." This declaration is bold and confident. I know that when I have had to face my 'Goliath', I have never felt the confidence that David had. As Goliath went in for the kill, David reached into his bag and slung a stone towards's Goliath's head. Immediately Goliath fell and David killed him. This was a monumental moment for the Israelite as it showed that strength is beyond stature and an ability to scare. Strength can also be found in being confident and secure in who you are and what you are grounded in. 

The lesson in this story is all about faith, courage and overcoming adversities. The themes found in 'David & Goliath' of faith, courage and overcoming adversities are relevant today. We all have a 'Goliath' that we face in our lives whether it is in a relationship, internal struggles, family dynamics or in our work place. Each 'Goliath' comes with it's own set of issues, conditions and realities. David's action is inspiration and encouragement that we have the ability to overcome the impossible. What he lacked in physical strength was totally increased through his mental strength. He had a confidence that enabled him to see beyond what he did not have and have full faith in what he possessed. 

STONE

hard solid non-metallic mineral matter of which rock is made, especially as a building material.

We are living in an age where the giants in our lives can become overwhelming. Anxiety, lack of motivation to do anything, pressure to provide and perform - plus everything in between, combined can become a Goliath that one may face daily. Everyday I see and hear of the 'Goliath' issues that some of our young people face. Working in a school that is predominantly made up of Maori and Pasifika students, the mountains that some of our young people have had to climb during the COVID pandemic is sadly a common thread amongst most Maori and Pasifika students nationwide. Dr Glenn Doherty, CEO of Langimalie Tongan Health Society says "When you’re Year 12 or 13, you’re preparing to either study or work. These Pasifika students are our priority because they are going to be the ones in line to financially help out their families during this time and other times of vulnerability." The current climate is confronting for all learners but especially for our Maori and Pasifika learners. 

Defeating Goliath through sheer confidence in God and in himself, is a testament to faith that David has. The stone he threw, despite it's size, was able to have a huge impact on Goliath. Education is a stone that all young people should and can capitalize from. It can open doors, create opportunities and like the fall of Goliath, it can be a breakthrough for better things. My Year 11 cohort are in the thick of assessments and as I mentioned in my earlier post, some have chosen to sit in cruise control. I believe that the most recent lockdown was detrimental for my Year 11s because when they returned to school they lacked the motivation to continue with their NCEA Level 1 journey. I shared the message of 'Facing your Goliath' at our online assembly this morning. Many were familiar with the story and understood the underlying message. Now it is matter of applying this to their situation. At times as a teacher and dean, I feel that the issues and realities that my students face is too big and complex for me to help them with. At times (more often than not) I feel that I need to more in supporting my students especially my Year 11s. It is during these times that I am reminded that while these issues may continue to increase and grow, I do have my own set of 'stones' that I can tap into. Part of the definition of a stone is that it can be used as a 'building material'. David's ONE stone had the impact to defeat a giant. It helped him build character. Whether it be one or more, we have a 'stone' (gifts, abilities, values....) to help us build towards something. It is all in the mind, how you choose to approach your 'Goliath' and how you choose to experience your 'Goliath' will have a lasting impression on you.