A Family of Brothers
After homeschooling for most of the previous three years, our son, Luke, faced an imminent decision regarding where to go to school in 2013. He enjoyed a spring visiting weekend on his own at Principia Upper School, and after talking with friends at Christian Science camps in the summer, he chose to leave home and join the Boys’ Dorm family in Canfield House.
From a young age, Luke had wanted a brother. It did not matter to him whether he was older or younger, as long as he had one. At home, in Texas, he has a sister; but at home in Canfield House he has roughly 70 brothers! Luke has learned that brotherhood and family are ideas that are not limited by human blood. Nor is a sense of home limited to being only at home. All the qualities that Luke has cherished in home and brotherhood are evident in the dorm. It is also where Luke and his brothers are fathered and mothered by noble examples of God’s parenting during the school year.
Being in the dorm affords opportunities to love, to understand, and to heal. The young men who are, and have been, leaders at the dorm have made a profound impact on Luke. They are brothers who lead with integrity, patience, kindness, mindfulness, honesty, and strength of character.
Our family has been most grateful for all the support and care of past and present housepops, along with the head of the Boys’ Dorm. In his family at Canfield House, Luke belongs to a dynamic brotherhood. He has shared humor and music, accomplishments, deep spiritual discussions, full-moon walks, snow-day serenades, understanding, and love. We know that the care Luke has received has enabled him to mature and embrace the “whole man” concept that is foundational at Principia. What a beautiful family it is!