Each month we ask several notables within the Regina community to offer their thoughts on one single topic. In this January issue, with a new year, we asked Miss Bohlke, Mrs. McMillin, and Mrs. Murray, to comment on the word “Beginnings.”

Ms Bohlke (Math) was recently engaged. Mrs. McMillin (Phys Ed) will be welcoming her third son into her family and Mrs. Murray (Art) is excited for her first child. Congratulations to all three!

Anna Bohlke

When I think of a beginning, I think of a fresh start, something new, as well as a new opportunity. I rarely think about an ending.  I believe that it was Semisonic (American alternative rock band), who reminds us that “every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”

In high school, you face a lot of new beginnings: the start of a new semester, a new friendship, or just a new day.  There are also just as many endings: the end of the school year, the end of a relationship, or the end of a class period.  As we begin any new chapter in our lives, it is important to learn from all of our past endings.  Move on.  Forgive and forget.  Armed with the knowledge and experience of the past, we can face each new beginning with confidence and optimism.

Rachel McMillin

I think for most of us the word “beginning” means to start something new. For example, a beginning brings a new start to a new chapter in life. Whether it be starting high school, college, a new career, marriage, or, in my case, expecting the arrival of a new baby, there are many new and positive beginnings that will happen to us throughout our lives. There are also many adverse beginnings that will also happen to us in our lives, such as, a move, a loss of a job, death, etc.

No matter what these new beginnings may be, I think one thing to keep in mind is the idea of what beginnings bring to us and that is hope. Beginnings are a way, for us, to enter into a new way of thinking that can inspire us, lift us and most certainly motivate us. No matter what the beginning may be in your life, understand it may be a challenge, but the beginning was put there for a reason and what you do with it is up to you.

Shannon Murray

A beginning can mean many things, the start of a new semester, a relationship or new chapter in your life. Each one holds promises and uncertainties but there is a beauty in it because you will never get THIS beginning again. It is completely yours, which means you get to decide its impact.

I have been thinking a lot about this topic as I prepare for my first baby, I’ve realized that every meaningful experience I’ve ever had came with some fear. When I started college for instance, I was terrified but my experiences and friends I met changed my life. Each one of my exciting and terrifying beginnings have formed who I am and defined me as an adult, not to mention brought so much fun and joy into my life!

I am looking forward to my new beginning this year (a little girl!) and I wish you a 2015 filled with your own wonderful new beginnings!