1. In our whole school assembly, in which we say goodbye to a much loved member of staff, the children pass a pebble round the hall, each standing up when it's passed to them. It takes a while, but it's time well spent as everyone gets to convey their own little, wordless message of thanks.

2. A colleague runs a reflection session after school. I feel as if I have a million other jobs to do, but I force myself to go along. I don't realise 'til afterwards how much I needed that time for quiet meditation. I always promise myself I'll take the time, but sometimes it needs to be forced upon me.

3. I pass a man on a bike on the way home. His backpack is covered in twinkly Christmas lights.