Thanksgiving

Dear Academy Families,

It is from a heart of thanksgiving that I write you today. The rough ground over which we have travelled these past months finally opens upon a meadow of repose. While I would never discount the critical role during the holidays of cooking, cleaning, and long car trips, I pray that this fall break God will refresh you through life-giving fellowship with loved ones as well as periods of silence and solitude.

This challenging year has also been a time of great blessing. If I were to list all for which I give thanks to God, know that each of your names would appear below. But in the interest of space, I have curated a small, representative selection—Mr. Watson’s 2020 Thanksgiving Top Ten:

Teachers and Staff. Without the pluck and perseverance of Crusader faculty and staff, we would not have a school today. And I love this school.

Cooperation. Without the spirit of cooperation exhibited by Crusader students, this weird and stressful year would be overwhelming. They have stepped up.

Dr. Tovar. She has been our pandemic point person in a season of competing narratives and ritualized contradiction. Her expertise and dedication has kept us safe.

Volleyball. Varsity girls are playing for a state title tomorrow. Just plain cool.

Mr. Creech. He serves this community out of deep experience, expertise, and character, often behind the scenes. I could not ask for a better right-hand man.

SA Weather. Coming from humid Houston, and, before that, numbingly cold New England, San Antonio’s dry, sunny climate still makes me feel like I’m on vacation. And in two days I guess I will be!

Father Lewis. I came to San Antonio and to this community at his invitation. I will always be grateful.

Academy Parents. You put on King’s Fair this past weekend, the Upper School dance the weekend before, then made and served lunch for “Staff Appreciation” yesterday. You are true partners in this work.

The Better Half. If you prefer your Head of School clothed, fed, and sane, then we all have my wife, Jenny, to thank. “A good wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels” (Proverbs 31:10).

Unbreakable Promises. Yes, life is unpredictable, and not, it seems, always overly concerned with our comfort and serenity. But we know the One who has promised us, “Lo, I am with you, even to the end of the age.”

Let us continue to pray for one another. Our Lady of The Atonement—pray for us!

Happy Thanksgiving!


Matthew David Watson
Head of School