Hello. My name is Kee’Li Fachathaler, and I am the Student Leadership Coalition (SLC) President at FRCS Senior High. We have worked hard to help raise school spirit among students and teachers by creating new activities and events. For example, this year saw the launch of the “Lip Sync Battle” during homecoming week, and students thoroughly enjoyed not only watching but participating in the battle. This past month, SLC introduced the “December Duck Challenge,” in which teachers hid four ducks around the school then students found the ducks, took a picture, and sent it to the @frcs.slc Instagram account.

As much fun as this year has been, it has been more work than I anticipated. At times I find myself tired and somewhat drained. But I am learning that it is ok to let others step in and help me, so that I can find rest and motivation to continue. In taking time to rest, I find myself thinking of people more than just myself; it allows me to care about others more than myself, and it allows me to put more energy into the things I love. Perhaps this is why God encourages us to follow His example and be intentional about taking time to rest.

I have wanted to be SLC President since 8th grade. At our 8th grade continuation I was awarded “most likely to become SLC President,” and since then I’ve dedicated a lot of time and energy preparing for this role. I took SLC development in leadership classes over the years; I met with past presidents seeking advice on how they made the high school a better community. Through all of this preparation, I learned so much about what it means to truly be a leader. I love serving this community through my leadership role, and when I grow weary from all the work, I’ve realized I can take breaks and find rest. There are people who can help; it’s not all up to me.

I pray this New Year you realize that you are allowed to rest and take a break. If we don’t learn how to rest, we will never be rejuvenated to work hard at things we care about.