Back To School

I'm back to school, yet again!

The beginning of the school term always make my mind wonders. For the past few years, I had a hard time understanding how this school with over three thousand students could operate when there was little promise of any upgrade of the school in sight. It is indeed marvelous when the school continues to produce high achievers both in academics and sports after all these years.

There they are, our students, walking together with their family members, relatives and friends; full of anxieties, aspirations, visions, and expectations.

I walk along the road and join the crowds, smiling and greeting everyone that I see or know, answering questions, and returning smiles. I always enjoy this moment.

As I reflect on my students, I couldn't help dwelling on the important task of their teachers. These are the lumps of clay that their teachers must mold into useful vessels.

Yet there are...

• Some who are so ignorant, not knowing what the future holds for them.
• Some who are so happy and carefree, and never do their works seriously.
  
• Some who are so restless and can never do a simple task given well.
• Some who are so quiet and unsociable, making it difficult to impart knowledge and skill.
• Some who just love to disrupt classes. They come to school with other motives and desires.
  
• Some who stay in school just to please their parents.

But there are...

• Some who are inquisitive and always ready with relevant questions.
• Some who are prepared and well-equipped for their lessons.
• Some who are tidy and neat in everything they do.
  
• Some who are well-disciplined and always complete their learning activities well.

So I wonder...

• What have I done as a teacher?
  
• How will I improve as a teacher?

I wonder... and I wonder.... and my mind continues to wonder... sigh!