Michaelmas, which began as an equinox and harvest festival during the Middle Ages, is also a feast to celebrate the archangel Michael. He’s a symbolic leader of the power of good over evil and of courage over cowardice.

Michaelmas celebrates the effort of our inner self, of our own strength and bravery, as well as being honest with ourselves and with others. At school, we experience the values behind this celebration: Bravery, initiative, courage, constancy, and protection. The children do this through a series of tests of courage that involve climbing, jumping, overcoming obstacles, and keeping their balance. This helps to strengthen the children as they use their inner power and confidence to overcome all the challenges they face.

Michaelmas invites us all to ask ourselves the question – Do we have the courage to face our fears? And can we tame the dragons that we face in life as bravely as St. George as he confronts the dragon, holding his bright sword of justice and courage high.

The children of Pacific Waldorf School showed tremendous bravery today as they overcame the challenges they faced. Balancing over water, facing fire and climbing were all bravely faced and overcome by our courageous students.