Working Together

It was 8th of May, a fine Saturday morning.

7.30 a.m.

The sky was bright except for some patches of dark clouds looming overhead.

It was Hari Gotong Royong PIBG, a special day where parents and teacher gathered together and worked voluntarily for the school.

Many parents and teachers had come. There was a registration process for parents and attendance taken for teachers. Many went to their own groups, talking, laughing and joking together.

7.45 a.m.

The division of work and delineation of responsibilities were described in detail.

Many understood what they were supposed to do. They hurried for their tools and rushed to their respective station. There was not much talking, except for some parents who had difficulties finding their station.

8.00 a.m. sharp.

Everyone was busy working.

It was a surprise to see just how many dedicated and hardworking parents and teachers we had, despite working directly under the brilliant and scorching sun.

I could see them sweating profusely and breathing hot and heavy. But I could see their broad smiling faces. They must be very proud and happy working for the school.

I could see them chopping down the tall and dense trees outside the school gate. I remembered this was the station where naughty students gathered together after they had escaped from classes.

I could see them extending the students’ motorcycle parking lot and cemented it.

I could see them repainting the buildings and repairing equipments.

Of course, there were also those helping in the preparation of food and drink for our breakfast and lunch.

The sun slowly rose above the mountains and I could feel the intense heat on my skin. It was indeed a hot day.

10.00 a.m.

All the work scheduled was completed.

Everyone finally rested from their work and went for their breakfast.

Then the jumble sale began.

Many products were sold. Now the bargaining session began. It was very interesting and everyone was laughing, jeering and joking as they went about shopping.

11.30 a.m.

It was time for lunch. It was a rich meal and there was more than enough food for everyone; more talking, laughing and joking sessions and everyone was smiling away happily.

I was happy to be a part of today’s gathering.

It was a rare occasion where parents and teachers could work together.

And I really enjoyed it.

And I believed many felt the same.