The Role of a Teacher

Of all the things that teachers can do for their students, exemplifying strong character traits, investing faith in them, supporting them in dealing with challenges, and protecting them from any harm or abuse are perhaps the most important things. Children are always bursting with energy. It is the choice of a teacher to give them the space and the opportunities to feel good about themselves or repress them emotionally; to support their development or contribute to their isolation; to celebrate their childhood or turn them into uninspired children growing up to become uninspired adults.

A Little Piece of Sunshine

Reema is one of the cutest students in my school. Almost all teachers, including those who don't teach or have never taught her, know her by name. But for me, she is so much more than that. She is like the sunshine; she warms and brightens up my classroom every single day. She has an infectious smile and a calming presence. Her cute dimples make me go mmm. Her little chats and silly games all throughout the day keep me entertained. She may look too young, but she understands everything. Whenever I am upset or brooding in the classroom, she  comes and strikes up a conversation with me. Her willingness in lending a helping hand to anyone who needs help, ability to persuade others in doing the right things, playfulness and sweetness inspires me everyday to be kind and compassionate, and work relentlessly, for I know she and all my other students can have beautiful and happy lives if they are provided with the right knowledge, support and love.

Love for Children

As I struggled to breath a sigh of relief after a hard day at school today, little Armaan ran towards me and touched my feet. I always tell him not to do so; he doesn't listen to me. I gave him a hug and then he went away. He is not my student, not even in my school, and yet we have formed a special bond. People talk about love in different contexts. For me, love is the reason that I wake up every morning to leave for school despite sleeping late at night, continue teaching even when my throat aches and voice cracks and keep thinking about my children even when there are other relevant things to think about.