The Power of a Smile

Love at Wenona isn’t just about roses and chocolates—it’s in the everyday moments of kindness, support, and connection.

Each week, our student leaders share their insights with their peers in Assembly.

Today is a very special day – Valentine’s Day – Galentine’s Day – however you celebrate, it is a time to cherish the people you love.

However, at Wenona, love isn’t just about roses and chocolates. It’s in the little things we do for each other every day. It’s in the friend who waits for you outside class just to walk to lunch together. It’s in the teacher who checks in after a tough week. It’s in the warm “good morning” from someone you barely know, or the reassuring hug after a bad exam. Love at Wenona isn’t romantic—it’s about kindness, support, and the way we lift each other up. And sometimes, the simplest way to show love is with a smile. A smile that says, “I see you,” “I’m here for you,” or even just, “You’ve got this”.

At the pharmacy where I used to work, we had a regular customer, Barry. Barry is 95 years old and has long white hair and a long white beard. Barry has this warmth about him. A warmth that instantly lifts your mood. A warmth that reminds you of the power of human connection. He always greeted me with the biggest smile and a story about his week … his presence was a reminder that even the smallest gestures can leave a lasting impact on someone’s day. Barry made me smile.

Year 12 – I love our spontaneous karaoke sessions, dance parties in West Commons, and our deep chats that turn into uncontrollable laughter. The amount of love I feel in your presence and from your beautiful smiles is incredible. You remind me that I have 180-something best friends who I can rely on and who I truly love. To my year group, you make me smile.

You see, this is the love that I’m talking about. The smiles that fill this world are smiles of love, of beauty, of happiness.

For the younger year groups, I hope you take a moment to cherish the friendships and connections you’re building because they will carry you through the highs and lows of School life. The bonds you create, the laughter you share, and the support you give each other will become some of your most treasured memories.

With all the doom and gloom that comes with homework, assessments, losing sport matches, and waking up too early, amongst other things, we often forget to appreciate the love that comes with our beautiful peers. But remember—no grit, no pearl. It’s through challenges, through showing up for each other, that we create something truly wonderful.

Don’t underestimate the power of a smile. A smile can change someone’s day, lighten their mood, and remind them that they’re not alone. Take a moment today to smile at a friend, a teacher, or someone you don’t know very well. Show them that you care and that they are a part of this incredible community here at Wenona. Because love isn’t just about grand gestures or extravagant celebrations – it’s in the little moments. The small acts of kindness, and the warmth that we share every single day. So, Wenona, you make me smile.

This Friday, as we celebrate Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day, or just another regular Friday, let’s remember the love that surrounds us here. Let’s spread that love in the simplest way possible – with a smile.

I will leave you with a quote from one of my favourite people – Hugh Grant. “If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaky feeling you’ll find that love actually is all around.” I truly love and appreciate all of you and the ways you make me smile.