Rector’s eNews 29: 9 September 2026

This Friday marks the 25th anniversary of the destruction of the Twin Towers in New York on the 11 September 2001. It marks a significant landmark as the world has changed remarkably in the ensuing period. It marked a particular moment when polarisation of perspectives became entrenched. There was no intention or desire to find a middle ground or to seek compromise: it marked a moment where either you were on the side of right and good, or on the side of wrong and evil.

The atrocities of that day will stay with those of us who lived through it for the rest of our lives. The images, broadcast live around the world, of these iconic buildings collapsing almost in slow motion, is not one that is quickly erased from memory – but the thousands of lives it claimed and the manner in which it happened changed the global landscape forever.

Whilst I would never presume to prescribe remedies for complex global issues, it is imperative that we teach our boys to resist the temptation to see the world in simple, opposing categories. We must be able to condemn actions that are unquestionably reprehensible without assuming that entire peoples, cultures or communities can be neatly classified as good or evil. Human conflict is invariably shaped by history, identity, fear, injustice and competing experiences of truth. This is especially important in South Africa, where our own history reminds us both of the destructive power of division and of the possibility of reconciliation. We should seek to raise young men who are alive to complexity; who listen carefully to perspectives different from their own; who possess the humility to question their assumptions; and who recognise the humanity of those with whom they disagree. In an increasingly polarised world, the instinct to understand rather than condemn, and to pursue reconciliation rather than deepen conflict, is not a sign of weakness or moral uncertainty. It is an expression of wisdom, courage and hope.

I am confident that this posture is entirely appropriate for the modern Michaelhouse man.

On a different note, altogether, our C Block boys had a tough start to their journey but after the cold and wet weather of the weekend, they are now enjoying milder and more agreeable conditions. All reports to date have been very positive. The D Block head off to Pondoland on Saturday and the B Block are currently enjoying a series of talks and workshops around leadership culminating in some time away in their House groups. The E Block have their iNhlosane challenge next week. So many excellent things which are central to what we believe about raising young men of consequence.

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