HS Retreat 2023: Towards Communal Unity
The time for High School Retreat has returned after its much prolonged break due to COVID-19. With 'Unity in Diversity' as the main theme, Logos' secondary students gathered at the campus to share their excitement as a community, form bondage under shared values, and learn how to truly reach unity by accepting others' diversity.
The day's journey began with Mr. Barrett's message about unity. According to him, unity is much deeper than just mere social bondage; it is a fundamental principle that grasps every being, as it requires order amidst chaos. Although there was an unexpected event that followed while he was giving his message, students earned something indelible from it, one way or another.
After that introduction, various events were ready to be enjoyed thanks to Stuco and the teachers. These activities included a no-hands-three-legged food relay, a hula-hoop hopping game, one-touch volleyball, and yolo ball. These games required a certain amount of unity and cooperation among the classmates, underscoring our theme of unity. We, journalism club writers, can ensure that everyone had the greatest time playing and communicating with each other.
Next off, Mrs. Stanley, our beloved principal, share a message about <How to Not Like Someone.> She began by admitting that in every relationship, there exists trivial conflict or discord. However, she pointed out that alienating others by misusing one's public power or popularity and setting variance among classmates might be a sign of immaturity. She emphasized that it is okay to not like someone, but that we don't have to publicize those private feelings.
Then, students played a scavenger photo hunt shortly before dinner. This event emphasizes teamwork and creativity, producing ridiculous yet hilarious photos which will become a great keepsake for years to come.
This day, as we can see from the grave significance of the messages stated above, was not planned just for fun activities and excited gatherings. It was also intended to help the students of Logos reflect and look back on their lifestyle in the community. Several small group meetings provided that opportunity. Students frankly shared what they felt about the messages, applied them to their lives, and made new determinations.
Last but not least, students relished the crazy dance party that perfectly embellished the finale of the first day of retreat. With exhilarating and energetic passion, many students gathered up on the stage at the MPR and danced with all their might to the much-beloved pop songs. Mincheol and Junil along with Pich were definitely in the lead of the crowd, showing off their dancing talent and attraction to the Logos community.
After an hour of dancing and singing, the students were fatigued but delighted by the day's experience. As they went back home for the night, many were excited about the next day's plan at the waterpark.
On the second and final day of the 2023 High School Retreat, the students head off to the Garden City Water Park to cool off from the heat. The waterpark provided a much needed break from the classrooms, allowing the students to enjoy the exciting water-based attractions.
The water park offered a variety of things to do, ensuring there was something for everyone! Students seeking adrenaline plunged down towering water slides and friends challenged each other to race down the multi-lane slides, creating an atmosphere of friendly competition and camaraderie. Meanwhile, those needing relaxation floated lazily along the lazy river or the wave pool, enjoying the refreshing water.
Tired after the long day? The school provided tasty pizza and delicious snacks afterward for the students to enjoy in school! As the day ends, the students finish off in their small groups and head on home. Thanks to the amazing Logos teachers who planned the retreat and Stuco members who arranged games, the memories made during the retreat will carry the high schoolers through the school year with a sense of excitement and unity.